Riyadh Adds Smart Cameras to Curb Speeding

Traffic authorities in Riyadh are expanding the use of smart and AI-enabled cameras across the city's main roads, alongside public awareness drives aimed at reducing speeding. The General Directorate of Traffic (Muroor) operates the fixed Saher and newer camera network on major corridors and intersections, monitoring both Saudi-registered and foreign-registered vehicles passing through the capital.

The cameras detect a wide range of violations beyond speeding, including running red and amber lights, mobile phone use while driving, seatbelt violations, lane discipline, bus-lane misuse, plate problems, and failure to give pedestrians priority. Enforcement is tightened near schools, hospitals, and residential areas during peak hours.

Speed limits across the city

Typical urban roads in Riyadh are set between 60 and 80 km/h, while zones near schools, hospitals, and residential neighborhoods drop to 30–40 km/h with strict camera monitoring at school times. Major inner-city roads and connectors often run at 80–90 km/h after recent limit updates. Highways serving Riyadh are generally set at 120 km/h, and selected new smart corridors can reach 140 km/h with average-speed cameras and variable limits shown on message signs.

Fines to keep in mind

Speeding penalties vary by how far a driver exceeds the limit. Going up to around 25 km/h over the limit can bring fines of SAR 300–500, while exceeding by more than 25 km/h can range from SAR 500 up to SAR 2,000 depending on the category. Running a red light detected by cameras carries SAR 3,000–6,000 with black points, and under 2026 updates, amber-light violations may also incur SAR 3,000–6,000, with possible vehicle impound.

Authorities say the wider camera coverage and "signal, don't accelerate" awareness messaging are intended to make Riyadh's busy roads safer for drivers, passengers, and pedestrians alike. Residents are encouraged to check posted limits, especially on updated corridors, to avoid unexpected penalties.

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