Daijiworld Media Network - Riyadh

Riyadh, Feb 17: Saudi Arabia is moving to tighten enforcement against unauthorised passenger transport activities, with the regulator proposing a fine of SR2,600 for individuals operating private vehicles without a licence, including in airport fare cases.

According to reports, the draft amendment forms part of broader efforts by the Transport General Authority to strengthen deterrent penalties under the Land Transport Law and enhance oversight of taxi and passenger transport brokerage services.

The proposed amendments revise the schedule of violations and penalties linked to the executive regulations governing taxi operations and passenger transport brokerage.
At the centre of the proposal is a SR2,600 fine for individuals found:

• Engaging in public transportation activity without a licence

• Operating airport fare services without authorisation

The move specifically targets individuals preparing to transport or actively transporting passengers in private vehicles without obtaining the required licence.

The draft seeks to activate deterrent provisions already outlined under the executive regulations, which fall under the jurisdiction of the Committee for Reviewing Grievances and Violations of the Land Transport Law.

Under the proposed amendments, the committee will be empowered to impose:

• Fines exceeding SR10,000

• Penalties for violations in public taxi operations

• Action against unlicensed airport transport services, particularly involving non-Saudi violators

• Suspension of licences, drivers, or vehicles for up to one year

For non-Saudi drivers found violating provisions of the Land Transport Law and related executive regulations, penalties may include deportation. In cases of repeat offences, violators may also face public disclosure of their names in local media at their own expense.

If adopted, the amendments will introduce clearer enforcement thresholds, enhance financial penalties, and expand regulatory powers to curb illegal passenger transport activities, particularly in public taxi and airport operations across the Kingdom.