Riyadh Fines Construction Sites Over SAR 20M for Dust

Construction projects in Riyadh have been fined more than SAR 20 million for dust pollution violations, as authorities step up efforts to reduce airborne dust from building sites and protect public health.

The enforcement is being carried out by the National Center for Environmental Compliance, which monitors construction activity across the city. The stated aim is to cut dust generated by construction work and improve overall air quality for residents.

The latest total marks a rise from an earlier reported figure of more than SAR 16 million across 557 violations in Riyadh, reflecting the ongoing nature of inspections and penalties on non-compliant sites.

What the rules require

A dust-control framework set for 2026 applies to construction projects covering 2,000 square meters or more in Riyadh. Under this framework, penalties can reach up to SAR 50,000 per violation, giving contractors a strong incentive to follow dust-suppression measures.

These fines are enforcement penalties rather than permits or licenses, so no validity period applies to the amounts themselves.

For the wider community, the crackdown matters because construction dust can affect air quality and respiratory health, especially in a fast-growing city with numerous active building sites. By holding projects accountable, the campaign aims to make daily life cleaner and healthier for both residents and expats living in Riyadh.

---

Stay updated with the latest news, events, sports updates, business insights, real estate and lifestyle stories on Saudi Living — the leading online platform for residents, expats, and visitors in Saudi Arabia.

Follow Saudi Living for daily updates:

• Instagram - @saudiliving
• X - @saudiliving
• Facebook - @saudiliving
• YouTube - @saudiliving