In a move reflecting Saudi Arabia's commitment to regulating the land transport sector and enhancing public safety, the Public Transport Authority announced the arrest of a foreign resident for operating a passenger transport service without a license, a practice known locally as "Kaddada." The Authority clarified that the violator was subject to the prescribed penalties, which included a fine of 12,000 Saudi Riyals and deportation from the Kingdom.
The legal and historical context of combating "Kaddada"
These strict measures are based on the Road Transport Law, issued by Royal Decree No. M/188, which aims to regulate all transport activities to ensure their efficiency and safety. The law categorically prohibits any road transport activity without a license, including soliciting passengers or gathering at their locations for the purpose of transporting them. Historically, unlicensed taxi services, known as "Kaddada," were prevalent in some areas, but they carried significant risks due to the lack of oversight regarding vehicle roadworthiness and driver qualifications, as well as the absence of insurance coverage for passengers in the event of accidents.
The importance of regulating the transport sector and its national impact
This measure comes within the broader context of the Kingdom's efforts to achieve the objectives of the National Transport and Logistics Strategy, a key pillar of Saudi Vision 2030. Regulating the transport sector not only enhances road safety but also has significant economic and social dimensions. Domestically, regulation ensures fair competition among licensed companies and approved transportation applications, incentivizing them to offer high-quality services at competitive prices. It also contributes to consumer protection by providing safe and reliable transportation options.
At both the regional and international levels, a well-regulated transportation sector enhances the Kingdom's image as an attractive investment and tourism destination. Tourists, visitors, and businesspeople rely on advanced infrastructure and reliable transportation services. Eliminating unregulated practices raises the level of trustworthiness across the entire system and supports the Kingdom's ambitious plans to welcome millions of visitors annually.
Continued monitoring campaigns and a call for compliance
The Public Transport Authority affirmed that its field inspection campaigns are ongoing across all regions of the Kingdom, in close cooperation with relevant security agencies, to monitor any violations and apply the prescribed penalties against violators without any leniency. The Authority reiterated its call to all those working in the transport sector to rectify their status and obtain the necessary licenses through official channels. It emphasized that compliance with regulations not only prevents violations but also contributes to raising the sector's efficiency and improving the quality of services provided to citizens, residents, and visitors alike.
