New car workshop requirements: One-year grace period for correction and classification of categories
The Ministry of Municipalities and Housing in Saudi Arabia announced the approval of a comprehensive set of new regulatory and technical requirements for vehicle repair and maintenance workshops. This step comes as part of the Ministry's ongoing efforts to regulate the sector and improve the quality of services provided to beneficiaries. The Ministry has granted existing establishments a 365-day (one-year) grace period to comply with the new standards, with the requirement to obtain licenses through the "Baladi" platform and link them to commercial registrations and Civil Defense approvals.
A strategic context that aligns with Vision 2030
These decisions cannot be viewed in isolation from the Kingdom's overall direction within Vision 2030, specifically the Quality of Life Program and initiatives to improve the urban landscape. For years, the auto repair sector has suffered from haphazard geographical distribution and inconsistent service levels, leading to widespread visual pollution within residential neighborhoods and on commercial streets. The new regulations aim to transform this sector from traditional workshops that may lack professional standards into advanced service centers that adhere to the highest safety and environmental standards, thereby enhancing the attractiveness of Saudi cities and achieving environmental sustainability.
Accurate classifications and absolute transparency
The new regulations included classifying workshops into five main categories to ensure specialization, ranging from comprehensive maintenance centers and quick service workshops to tire and battery centers. For the first time, the ministry imposed strict standards to enhance transparency and build trust between service providers and customers. Workshops are required to provide air-conditioned waiting areas with glass facades, allowing customers to see their vehicles being serviced. In cases where there are architectural obstacles, the owner is obligated to install surveillance cameras that transmit a live feed of the work to a screen inside the waiting room—a measure that completely eliminates any instances of manipulation or commercial fraud that might occur behind the scenes.
Strict spatial and environmental controls
As part of urban planning regulations, the Ministry has put an end to the encroachment of industrial activities on residential areas. The new regulations restrict bodywork, painting, and heavy repairs to designated industrial zones and authorized service centers only, while light and quick maintenance centers are permitted on commercial streets, thus contributing to a reduction in noise and pollution levels within urban areas.
Environmentally, the regulations require establishments to use non-absorbent solid flooring, provide advanced systems for separating oils and preventing their leakage into sewage networks, in addition to contracting with accredited entities for waste recycling, reflecting a clear commitment to environmental protection.
Expected economic and professional impact
These requirements are expected to significantly improve the market, eliminating establishments unable to meet the standards and opening the door for serious investors and specialized companies. The ministry has also focused on human resources by requiring employees to possess accredited professional certifications and wear uniforms, which will enhance operational efficiency and safeguard consumer rights. Furthermore, mandating the provision of electronic payment options and the placement of a QR code on the establishment's facade will streamline oversight and allow customers to verify the establishment's legitimacy with a simple click.
