Riyadh – In a decisive step to enhance the regulation of the land transport sector and ensure passenger safety, the Public Transport Authority in Saudi Arabia announced the results of its intensive inspection campaigns for January, which resulted in the apprehension of 1,378 violators of passenger transport regulations across the Kingdom. These campaigns are part of the Authority's ongoing efforts to combat irregular practices that negatively impact service quality and the safety of users.
Historical background and organizational efforts
The phenomenon of unlicensed private transportation, or "Kaddada," is a long-standing practice in Saudi cities, representing a significant part of the informal economy. However, with the launch of Vision 2030, the Kingdom has moved towards regulating all economic sectors, including transportation. The Public Transport Authority, as the primary legislative and regulatory body, seeks to enhance the efficiency, safety, and reliability of this vital sector by promoting regulated operations through licensed transportation apps and official taxis, while simultaneously combating unregulated activities that lack safety standards and oversight.
Details of violations and strict penalties
The authority explained that its inspection teams, in cooperation with relevant security agencies, detected a variety of violations during their inspection tours. The main violations included the following:
- 689 violations: Practicing passenger transport activities without obtaining the necessary licenses, a violation known as “Kaddada”.
- 614 violations: Practicing “calling” activities to attract passengers using private vehicles, causing traffic chaos and exposing passengers to security risks.
- 75 violations: related to other practices of transporting passengers in irregular ways.
The authority confirmed that it is enforcing regulations against violators, having impounded 83 vehicles and imposed hefty fines in accordance with the new regulations for the land transport system. Penalties escalate significantly for repeat offenses. For example, the fine for "calling out" (a form of illegal street vending) can reach 11,000 riyals, along with vehicle impoundment for 25 days. For engaging in unauthorized transport, the penalty can reach a fine of 20,000 riyals , vehicle impoundment for up to 60 days, the possibility of selling the vehicle at public auction, and deportation of the violator if they are a non-Saudi citizen after serving their sentence.
The importance and expected impact of monitoring campaigns
These campaigns are of strategic importance on several levels. Locally , they aim to enhance the safety of citizens and residents, as unlicensed drivers do not undergo security or professional checks, and their vehicles may not meet safety requirements. They also protect licensed drivers from unfair competition. Regionally and internationally , this regulation projects a positive image of the Kingdom's transportation environment, especially with the increasing number of tourists, visitors, and businesspeople, thus reinforcing the Kingdom's position as a safe and well-regulated destination. Economically, these measures contribute to integrating activities into the formal economy, supporting the GDP and achieving the objectives of the National Transport and Logistics Strategy.
Call for compliance and reporting
In closing, the Public Transport Authority reiterated its call to all those working in the sector to adhere to the regulations and bylaws governing passenger transport. It also urged all users to utilize authorized transportation services to ensure their safety and protect their rights, and to report any violations or observations via the unified number (19929) or through the Authority's official social media accounts.
