Riyadh Dust-Pollution Fines Hit SR20 Million

Fines imposed on construction projects for causing dust pollution in Riyadh have reached about SR20 million as of early September 2026, following an intensified inspection and monitoring campaign carried out by the National Center for Environmental Compliance in coordination with Riyadh Municipality and the Royal Commission for Riyadh City.

The enforcement drive began in February 2026, with more than 3,000 inspections completed across the city by mid-year. By July 2026, inspectors had issued 557 violations for failing to comply with the procedural guide for dust control, with fines exceeding SR16 million at that stage. The cumulative total climbed to around SR20 million by early September as inspections continued and additional violations were recorded.

Individual penalties for dust-control breaches reach up to SR50,000 and stop-work orders are also used as an enforcement measure. Violations are assessed against an official procedural guide that sets requirements for controlling dust and particulates emitted from construction sites.

Authorities say the campaign aims to reduce dust emissions from construction, improve air quality across Riyadh neighborhoods, and protect public health. Air quality in the city is tracked through a network of 12 fixed monitoring stations.

Under Saudi environmental law, more serious violations involving hazardous materials can carry penalties of up to SR30 million and up to 10 years' imprisonment, or both. Beyond monetary fines, decisions on major environmental breaches may include obligations to rectify violations, repair environmental damage, and pay compensation. Dust-related fines are described as arising directly from on-site inspections and regulatory action by the environmental authorities.

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