Extension of the deadline for adjusting the status of light and heavy transport facilities to 2026

In a strategic move aimed at supporting the logistics sector and facilitating the business environment, the Board of Directors of the Public Transport Authority a package of significant regulatory amendments. These included extending the deadline for road transport facilities to adjust their operations for light and heavy freight transport activities. This decision encompasses all commercial and non-commercial purposes, extending the deadline to August 27, 2026, to enable these facilities to fulfill the compliance requirements in accordance with the approved executive regulations.

General context and logistical transformation within Vision 2030

This decision comes within the context of the major structural transformations taking place in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as part of the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, which places the transport and logistics sector at the heart of its strategy to transform the Kingdom into a global logistics hub connecting three continents. Historically, the Public Transport Authority has sought over the past years to reorganize this vital sector to curb irregular practices, combat commercial concealment, and improve the quality of services provided. The current extension reflects the flexibility of the Saudi legislator and its commitment to not harming operating companies, while giving them sufficient time to adapt to new international standards.

Details of the decision to amend the status of transport facilities

The regulatory decision included extending the deadline for changing the registration type for heavy transport activities from “private transport” to “public transport,” based on the provisions of the executive regulations. This measure grants companies and institutions additional time to rectify their regulatory status and comply with the new requirements governing the sector, thus ensuring the uninterrupted flow of goods and supply chains.

Passing the professional competency test for drivers

The decision also included amending the mechanism for implementing professional competency requirements for drivers, a key standard for improving road safety. It was decided that drivers with valid licenses will be required to pass the professional competency test starting from the date their licenses expire, following the launch of professional training programs for heavy transport drivers or those transporting hazardous materials. Conversely, the requirement for drivers without licenses, or with expired licenses, will begin from the date these programs are launched. This will directly contribute to raising the efficiency of human resources and reducing traffic accidents.

The importance and expected impact of the decision

Domestically )that were struggling to meet requirements in a short timeframe, thus protecting local investments and maintaining stable transportation prices. Regionally and internationally, regulating the Saudi transport fleet and enhancing driver efficiency will boost the reliability of cross-border supply chains and make the Saudi transport sector more attractive to foreign investment, while adhering to the highest global safety and quality standards.

Legislative flexibility to ensure compliance

The Authority confirmed that the extension also includes the deadline stipulated in the mechanism for adjusting the status of light freight transport facilities, thus enhancing the integration of regulatory efforts across various land transport activities. The decision stipulates the possibility of submitting a request for an additional extension of the specified deadline if needed, in accordance with the provisions of Royal Decree No. (M/188) dated 24/8/1446 AH, ensuring flexible implementation without compromising regulatory objectives. These amendments will come into effect from the date of their issuance and publication in the Official Gazette, reinforcing the principle of transparency.