New transport regulations: Emergency button and fare waiver in case of breakdown
In a move aimed at improving the quality of life and enhancing safety standards in the transportation sector in Saudi Arabia, the Public Transport Authority the new executive regulations for ride-hailing services. This step comes within the context of the digital and regulatory transformation underway in the Kingdom's logistics and transportation sector, in line with the goals of Vision 2030, which seeks to make Saudi cities smarter and more sustainable.
Enhanced security and emergency button
The most prominent feature of the new regulations is the absolute focus on security. The authority has mandated that all licensed applications provide an "emergency icon" within their apps. This technical feature is not merely an internal alert; it is directly linked to the security operations center at the Ministry of Interior, ensuring maximum response to any emergency that passengers or drivers may encounter. This feature remains active even after the trip has ended to guarantee complete safety.
Consumer protection: No service, no charge
To safeguard passengers' rights, the regulations address potential financial disputes arising from technical malfunctions. The rules explicitly prohibit charging passengers if the vehicle breaks down during the journey or if the driver refuses to complete the route for unjustified reasons. This measure enhances service reliability and places full responsibility for vehicle readiness on the operator.
Precise technical and operational requirements
The regulations also addressed the technical aspects of vehicles, setting a maximum operational lifespan of eight years from the year of manufacture, requiring registration as "public transport," periodic technical inspections, and comprehensive insurance. Furthermore, the regulations mandated that establishments maintain a minimum fleet of ten vehicles and allocate at least two vehicles specifically for serving people with mobility impairments and the elderly, reflecting the sector's commitment to social responsibility.
Driver discipline and general appearance
Regarding personnel, the authority imposed strict standards for drivers, including obtaining a "professional driver's card" that is renewed annually after passing competency and safety tests, a medical examination, and a clean criminal record. The regulations also completely prohibit smoking inside vehicles and require drivers to wear a uniform and maintain public decency. For non-Saudis, the regulations restrict employment to those holding the profession of "public transport driver" and possessing a documented contractual relationship.
These regulations are expected to help filter out unregulated operators from the market, as the authority has threatened violators with penalties including fines and license cancellation, which will lead in the future to a fair competitive environment that provides safe and reliable transportation services for citizens, residents and visitors.
