Saudi Traffic Sets New Rules for Heavy Trucks

The Saudi Traffic Directorate has set six new conditions for heavy trucks on the Kingdom's roads, aimed at enhancing traffic safety and regulating the movement of large vehicles for the benefit of all road users.

Under the new rules, heavy trucks must travel in the rightmost lane on multi-lane roads and adhere to the permitted times for entering and exiting cities. These local truck-restriction schedules are set by the General Department of Traffic and vary from one city to another. Loads must be securely covered and fastened so that no part can fall onto the road, and drivers are prohibited from carrying passengers in trucks that are not designed to transport people.

When a heavy truck stops at night, the driver must place a triangular warning sign or reflector at a sufficient distance behind the vehicle to alert other road users. Operators must also comply with the permitted dimensions and weight limits for their loads.

Dimensions, weights and fines

Standard truck limits on public roads are a maximum length of 23 meters, width of 2.6 meters, and height of 4.8 meters. Non-compliance can incur a fine of 1,000 SAR. Permissible gross weight depends on axle count: up to 21 tons for two axles, 34 tons for three, 42 tons for four, and 45 tons for five axles.

Exceeding permissible weights can result in a fine of 200 SAR for every additional 100 kg, with total weight-violation fines reaching up to 100,000 SAR. Dedicated truck-control facilities, such as the King Fahd Causeway control center, apply additional fee schedules of 300 SAR along with graduated fees for excess length, width and height. Vehicles that fail to comply may be refused entry.

The measures matter for residents across Riyadh, Jeddah and other cities, as they aim to reduce accidents, protect drivers, and keep roads clear of falling loads and oversized vehicles.

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