Penalty for trespassing on railway lines: a fine of 500,000 and imprisonment
The Saudi Railways Company (SAR) issued a strongly worded warning regarding encroachment on railway property, stressing that such actions not only pose a danger to lives, but also expose their perpetrators to strict legal accountability and severe penalties aimed at protecting public property and ensuring the safety of railway transport in the Kingdom.
Details of penalties and violations
In its statement, SAR clarified that trespassing on railway property is a serious violation of regulations, punishable by a fine of up to 500,000 Saudi Riyals and/or imprisonment for up to two years. The company indicated that these measures are intended to deter behaviors that damage private and public property and disrupt train traffic, which is a vital artery for transportation and freight in the Kingdom.
“Safer for You” Campaign: Ongoing Awareness
As part of its awareness efforts, the Saudi Railways launched its first field safety campaign for 2025 last month under the slogan “Safety for You.” This sixth iteration of the campaign, implemented by Saudi Railways, began in Al-Zulfi Governorate, building on the successes achieved over the past three years. The campaign primarily aims to raise safety awareness across the railway network and promote safe behaviors among residents living near train tracks.
National context and the importance of rail transport
These heightened security measures and awareness campaigns come at a time when Saudi Arabia is experiencing an unprecedented boom in the transport and logistics sector, in line with the Kingdom's Vision 2030. The railway network is a cornerstone of the National Transport and Logistics Strategy, which aims to solidify the Kingdom's position as a global logistics hub connecting three continents. Therefore, protecting this massive infrastructure from tampering or encroachment is a top priority to ensure the uninterrupted flow of goods and facilitate the movement of passengers between different cities and regions.
The economic and social impact of compliance with regulations
Respecting railway rights-of-way is more than just complying with the law; it is a national duty that contributes to preserving lives and property. Random encroachments not only cause tragic accidents but also lead to significant economic costs due to travel disruptions and the need to repair damage caused by vandalism. Through its national field initiatives, SAR works to instill a culture of safety and reduce dangerous behaviors, which positively impacts operational efficiency and quality of life, and enhances the reliability of rail transport as a safe and environmentally friendly mode of transportation.
