Blog – Page 8

The Law of Carriage by Land on Roads

Post author By Decree
Post date 22 February 2025

Article 1

For the purposes of applying this law, the following terms have the meaning assigned to each of them, unless the context requires otherwise:

1․ Kingdom: The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

2․ Law: The Law of Carriage by Land on Roads.

3․ Authority: The Transport General Authority.

4․ Regulations: The executive regulations of the law.

5․ Board: The board of directors of the authority.

6․ President: The president of the authority.

7․ Carriage by land on roads: The carriage of passengers, their belongings, or goods by land on roads, by means of a vehicle, including renting a vehicle for the purpose of carriage or transport, as well as brokerage in any of them.

8․ Passenger: A natural person who is present in the vehicle or who is boarding or disembarking from it for the purpose of transport, excluding the driver.

9․ Person: Any natural or legal person.

10․ Driver: Whoever drives a vehicle.

11․ Vehicle: A means of land transport intended for the carriage of passengers, their belongings, or goods on roads, and which is powered or propelled by mechanical power or by the power of its driver.

12․ Bus: A mechanically powered vehicle intended for the carriage of passengers—for a fare or without a fare—whose number exceeds eight as well as their belongings, including buses intended for rental.

13․ Private car: A mechanically powered vehicle intended for private use, which may‏—by a license from the authority‏—transport passengers and their belongings‏—for a fare‏—or the carriage of goods for commercial purposes, including cars intended for rental.

14․ Taxi car: A mechanically powered vehicle intended for the carriage of passengers and their belongings—for a fare‏—the capacity of which does not exceed eight passengers.

‏15. Truck: A mechanically powered individual vehicle, one that pulls a trailer, or any other configuration permitted to be driven on roads, and intended for the carriage of goods for commercial or non-commercial purposes, including trucks intended for rental.

‏16. Bike: A vehicle that is powered by mechanical power or the power of its driver, which has one or more wheels, which is not designed in the form of a car, and is intended for the carriage of passengers and their belongings—for a fare—or for the carriage of goods for commercial purposes, including bikes intended for rental.

‏17. Prime mover: A vehicle with a trailer attached to it that together form a single unit.

18․ Trailer: A vehicle without an engine pulled by another motor vehicle.

19․ Semi-trailer: A trailer that has a large portion of its weight supported by a prime mover.

20․ Scheduled transport: The carriage of passengers and their belongings by buses on specific routes with fixed fares, scheduled trips, and announced times.

21․ Non-scheduled transport: The carriage of passengers and their belongings by buses on demand under a contract between a service provider and a beneficiary.

22‏. Private passenger transport: A person transporting his associates or their equivalent and their belongings by buses belonging to him or rented for this purpose.

23․ Brokerage: Arranging the services provided in the activities of carriage by land on roads between the parties benefiting from them, including brokerage via electronic applications.

24․ License: An official document issued by the authority to a person, permitting him to practice any of the activities of carriage by land on roads in accordance with the provisions of the law.

25․ Service provider: A person licensed to practice one or more activities of carriage by land on roads.

26․ Consignor: A person who enters into a contract with a service provider for the carriage of goods by road to the consignee.

27․ Consignee: A person to whom goods are sent.

28․ Goods: Materials, equipment, commodities, animals, food, or other things transported by vehicles.

29‏. Facilities: Carriage by land on roads facilities, including stations and centers for vehicle departure and arrival, parking lots and yards for rest and overnight stays, land logisticsal services centers including centers for unloading and loading goods, and centers for deconsolidation and consolidation of goods.

Article 2

The law aims to regulate activities, vehicles, and facilities of carriage by land on roads, develop and promote their services, and encourage investment in them—in coordination with the relevant entities—in a manner consistent with the objectives of economic and social development in the Kingdom, taking into account environmental aspects and security and safety requirements.

Article 3

The carriage of passengers, their belongings, or goods by land must be done by one of the following means of land transport:

1‏. Bus.

2‏. Private car.

3․ Taxi car.

4‏. Truck.

5․ Bike.

6‏. Prime mover, trailer, or semi-trailer.

7‏. Any land transport means developed in the future and determined by a decision of the board.

Article 4

1․ A person shall not practice any activities of carriage by land on roads except after obtaining a license.

The regulations must specify the procedures, conditions, and requirements required for issuing the license and its duration.

2․ ‏The prohibition stipulated in paragraph 1 of this article includes all preparatory work for any person to practice any activity of carriage by land on roads without a license, including: soliciting passengers, calling out to them, pursuing them, obstructing them, or gathering or wandering in places where passengers are present for the purpose of soliciting them.

Article 5

1․ It is not permitted to assign a license to another person, except after obtaining the approval of the authority. The regulations must specify the controls and procedures for obtaining such approval.

2․ It is not permitted to operate a vehicle for any activity other than that for which it is licensed to practice, except in cases that require this and for temporary periods, as specified by the regulations.

Article 6

The board may—in the activity that it specifies—set a maximum limit for the number of licenses and vehicles, in accordance with the controls and criteria approved for this purpose.

Article 7

The authority shall issue the documents necessary for the service provider to practice any activity of carriage by land on roads, in accordance with the terms and conditions specified in the regulations.

Article 8

Activities of carriage by land on roads are divided into the following:

1․ Carriage of passengers activity.

2‏. Carriage of goods activity.

3‏. Vehicle rental activity.

4․ Brokerage activity in the carriage of passengers or goods or vehicle rental.

5․ Any other activity determined by a decision of the board.

Article 9

The carriage of passengers activity is divided into the following:

1․ Scheduled transport.

2․ Non-scheduled transport.

3․ Private passenger transport.

4․ Transport by private car.

5․ Transport by taxi car.

6․ Brokerage in carriage of passengers.

7․ Any other activity determined by the regulations.

The regulations must specify the sub-activities falling under these activities.

Article 10

The carriage of goods activity is divided into the following:

1‏. Carriage of goods for commercial purposes.

2‏. Carriage of goods for non-commercial purposes.

3․ Brokerage in carriage of goods.

4․ Any other activity determined by the regulations.

The regulations must specify the sub-activities falling under these activities.

Article 11

The vehicle rental activity is divided into the following:

1‏. Bus rental.

2․ Private car rental.

3․ Truck rental.

4․ Bike rental.

5․ Brokerage in renting buses, private cars, trucks, or bikes. The regulations must specify the sub-activities falling under these activities.

Article 12

The authority may—without prejudice to the applicable laws and instructions—offer contracts to the private sector, whereby they undertake to provide activities of carriage by land on roads specified by the board, in accordance with criteria set for this purpose. The legal procedures must be completed in regard to them.

Article 13

A service provider shall comply with the following:

1‏. Operational requirements and controls specified by the regulations.

2‏. The external identity of the vehicle as determined by the regulations.

3․ Beneficiary rights as determined by the regulations.

Article 14

A beneficiary of the activities of carriage by land on roads shall adhere to his duties as specified in the regulations.

Article 15

Taking into account the mandates of the relevant entities, the authority shall issue the necessary licenses to operate the facilities. The regulations must specify the necessary controls and conditions for this.

Article 16

The authority shall determine the equipment, technical requirements and specifications, and security and safety requirements necessary for activities, vehicles, and facilities of carriage by land on roads, in accordance with the adopted standard specifications.

Article 17

The board shall determine the fee for the licenses, documents, services, and works provided by the authority in accordance with the provisions of the law.

Article 18

The board shall determine the carriage fares for any activities of carriage by land on roads it deems appropriate, based on the policies—set by it in this regard—that must explain the pricing principles, without prejudice to the international obligations of the Kingdom.

Article 19

1․ Inspectors—identified by a decision of the president—shall, together or individually, police and investigate violations of the provisions of the law, regulations, and licenses. The regulations must specify the rules and procedures for their work.

2․ Without prejudice to the provisions of paragraph 1 of this article, the board may assign some tasks for the inspection and policing of violations to the private sector, in accordance with controls and criteria it approves for this purpose.

Article 20

Superiors and employees in the places to be inspected shall enable inspectors to perform their work and provide all the required facilities, information, and documents. Inspectors shall display their job cards when performing their mandates.

Article 21

1 ‏. The authority may—if required—seek the assistance of the competent entities in the event of arrest or to enforce any decision issued against a violator.

2․ Security entities shall—when needed—support the authority in performing its tasks related to policing violations of drivers who are not licensed to practice the activity of carriage by land on roads, without prejudice to the mandate of each entity.

Article 22

Without prejudice to any punishment more severe stipulated by another law, whoever violates any provisions of the law, regulations, or licenses must be punished with one or more of the following punishments:

1․ Warning, while giving him the required corrective grace period.

2‏. A fine not exceeding 5,000,000 (five million) Riyals.

3‏. Suspension of the license, fully or partly, for a period not exceeding one year.

4․ Cancellation of the license.

5․ Suspending the driver, the vehicle, or both, from practicing activities of carriage by land on roads for a period not exceeding one year.

6‏. Impounding the vehicle for a period not exceeding 60 days.

Except for the punishments mentioned in paragraphs 1 and 4 of this article, the punishment against a violator must be doubled if he repeats the same violation within one year from the date on which the decision becomes fortified by the expiration of the legally specified period or the judgment issued against him becomes final.

Article 23

1‏. The president shall—by a decision from him—issue a classification schedule for violations accompanied by the punishments stipulated in article 22 of the law, and it must take into account the nature and gravity of each violation, as well as its aggravating and mitigating circumstances.

2‏. The inspectors—stipulated in article 19 of the law—shall impose the punishment of warning— stipulated in article 22(1) of the law—the punishment of a fine—stipulated in article 22(2) of the law—not exceeding 10,000 (ten thousand) Riyals, and the punishment of impounding vehicles—stipulated in article 22(6) of the law—against vehicles that violate security and safety requirements and vehicles that violate article 4 of the law, in accordance with the classification schedule specified in paragraph 1 of this article. The regulations must specify the manner in which the violator is notified of this.

3․ A violator may file a grievance against the punishment issued pursuant to paragraph 2 of this article before the committee—referred to in article 24(1) of the law—within 30 days from the date of he is notified of it, and he may—if the committee upholds the punishment—file a grievance against the decision of the committee before the competent court within 60 (sixty) days from the date of he is notified of the decision of the committee to uphold.

Article 24

1‏. Taking into account article 23(2) of the law, consideration of violations of the law, regulations, or licenses and imposition of the punishments stipulated in article 22 of the law must be undertaken by a committee or more formed by a decision of the president for a period of three years, renewable. Each committee must consist of not less than three members, and the decision to form it must specify its chair, provided that he is a Sharia or legal specialist. Its decisions must be issued by majority and must be reasoned.

2․ The regulations shall determine the rules of work of the committee—referred to in paragraph 1 of this article—as well as its procedures and remuneration of its members and its secretariat.

3․ It is permitted to file a grievance against the decision of the committee—stipulated in paragraph 1 of this article—before the competent court, within 60 (sixty) days from the date of notification of the decision.

Article 25

In addition to the punishments stipulated in article 22 of the law, the committee—referred to in article 24(1) of the law—may carry out the following:

1․ Imposing a fine for each day that a violator continues to violate the decision issued by the committee, provided that the total fines do not exceed 10% of the fine amount stipulated in article 22(2) of the law. This fine must be calculated from the date specified by the decision.

2․ Including in the decision—issued to determine the punishment—a ruling ordering the deportation from the Kingdom of a non-Saudi who violates the provisions of article 4 of the law, based on controls agreed upon between the Minister of Interior and the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Transport General Authority.

3‏. Including in the decision—issued to determine the punishment—a stipulation that its summary must be published at the expense of the violator in a local newspaper published in his place of residence, and if there is no newspaper in his place of residence, then in the area closest to him, or that it must be published in any other appropriate medium, according to the type of violation committed, its gravity, and its impact, provided that it is published after the decision becomes fortified by the expiration of the period specified by law or after the judgment issued against him becomes final.

4․ Including in the decision—issued to determine the punishment—a stipulation obliging the violator to remove the violation.

5‏. Issuing a decision to partially or completely block the applications or websites of the violating establishments, provided that the legal procedures in this regard are completed.

6‏. Issuing a decision to close the violating shop in the event that any activities of carriage by land on roads are practiced without a valid license.

7․ Requesting the competent court to rule to confiscate the vehicle that has practiced any activity of carriage by land on roads without obtaining a license for the fifth time and subsequent times.

Article 26

1․ A service provider is liable for any damage caused to public or private property as a result of his violation of the provisions of the law, regulations, or licenses, unless the liability of another is proven.

2․ In the event that public or private property is damaged as a result of practicing any activity of carriage by land on roads without obtaining a license, the person who caused that damage must be held liable for it, unless the liability of another is proven.

Article 27

Vehicles impounded in accordance with the provisions of the law must be sold at public auction if their owner, his representative, or one of his heirs does not come forward to receive them within 90 (ninety) days from the date of expiry of the impoundment period, and any fines, fees, or towing and impoundment charges due on the vehicle or its owner must be paid from the selling price, and the remainder must be deposited with the General Commission for the Guardianship of Trust Funds for Minors and their Counterparts in trust for the owner or the heirs. The regulations must specify the following:

1․ Procedures for selling these vehicles at public auction.

2․ The mechanism for notifying an interested party regarding the matters included in this article within a period of not less than 30 days from the date set for the auction.

3․ Procedures that must be taken if no one bids to purchase these vehicles, taking into account the procedures approved by the relevant entities.

Article 28

The provisions of the law do not apply to vehicles belonging to government entities, diplomatic and consular missions, regional and international bodies, emergency and ambulance vehicles, vehicles for transporting the dead, or vehicles for transporting money, precious metals, and documents of monetary value.

Article 29

If the punishments or measures taken by the authority result in an effect on services of carriage by land on roads, the authority shall make appropriate arrangements to ensure the continuity of services whenever necessary.

Article 30

The authority shall—in the activities it specifies—carry out the following:

1․ Qualifying providers of electronic equipment and services for vehicles, in accordance with the controls and criteria specified in the regulations.

2․ Qualifying providers of professional qualification services for drivers, in accordance with the controls and criteria specified in the regulations.

3‏. Determining the performance measurement points for the service provider and the resulting procedures related to licenses and their classification, in accordance with the controls and criteria specified by the regulations.

Article 31

The board may assign some of the tasks of the authority to the private sector, in accordance with the applicable laws and instructions and the controls and criteria it approves for this purpose.

Article 32

The regulations must be issued by a decision of the board within 180 (one hundred and eighty) days from the date of publication of the law.

Article 33

The law replaces the Law of Public Carriage by Land on Roads in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia issued by Royal Decree D/25 dated 21 Jumada Al-Thani 1397 [8 June 1977], and all that conflicts with it is repealed.

Article 34

The law must be published in the official gazette, and comes into force 180 (one hundred and eighty) days from the date of its publication.

Published in Umm Al-Qura 5073 issued on 28 February 2025.

Ministerial Decision

Transport General Authority: Decision 1/293 Approving the Amending of the Regulation Governing the Activity of Car Rental and Rental Brokers

Post author By Decree
Post date 18 February 2025

Arabic

The Minister of Transport and Logistics Services,

based on the powers granted to him by law,

after perusal of the Law of Public Transport on Roads of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia issued by Royal Decree D/25 dated 21 Jumada Al-Thani 1397 [7 June 1977],

after perusal of the System of the Transport General Authority issued by Council of Ministers Decision 323 dated 14 Ramadan 1434 [22 July 2013], and its amendments,

after perusal of the Regulation Governing the Activity of Car Rental and Rental Brokerage issued by Minister of Transport and Logistics Services Decision 120/41/1 dated 7 Jumada Al-Awwal 1441 [3 January 2020], and its amendments,

and after perusal of Board of Directors of the Transport General Authority Decision 2/3/2024/4 dated 10 Jumada Al-Thani 1446 [11 December 2024],

hereby decides

First

The amendment of the Regulation Governing the Activity of Car Rental and Rental Brokerage is hereby approved as follows:

1‏. Adding a definition to article 1 that reads as follows:

Gross weight: The weight of a vehicle empty plus the maximum payload of the vehicle.

2․ Adding a definition to article 1 that reads as follows:

Electronic channels: The websites or electronic applications of licensed establishments practicing the activity, and other channels.

3․ Adding a definition to article 1 that reads as follows:

Booking:
The process of reserving a car and specifying additional services and equipment through electronic channels, which takes place before signing a rental contract.

2․ Adding a definition to article 1 that reads as follows:

Beneficiary:
A natural or legal person who carries out the booking process through electronic channels.

5․ Amending article 4(First)(1)(b) to read as follows:

A valid commercial registration that includes the activity of car rental or rental brokerage.

6․ Amending article 4(First)(2) to read as follows:

Providing a suitable headquarters in the city subject of the license in accordance with the approved municipal and technical requirements, or the requirements issued by the relevant competent entities.

7․ Amending article 4(First)(5) to read as follows:

Providing a financial guarantee of 100,000 Riyal in favor of the authority, in the form it specifies. Entrepreneurial ventures are exempt from providing the financial guarantee for one-time only.

8․ Deleting article 5(1)(d), which stipulated:

It is permitted to enter into a contract with a rental broker.

9․ Deleting article 5(1)(e), which stipulated:

It is permitted to practice car rental by the hour and with a driver, in accordance with the provisions of article 27 and article 28.

10‏. Amending article 5(2)(c) to read as follows:

Without prejudice to the provisions of article 9, one main headquarters must be provided at the level of the region or city subject of the license, with the possibility of opening an unlimited number of branches within the region and city subject of the license. An establishment may also open branches in other regions, provided that a minimum of 100 vehicles are provided at the level of each region. An establishment may open branches in other regions without restriction by adding 100 vehicles, in accordance with the rating issued to it based on service measurement points.

11․ Deleting article 5(2)(d), which stipulated:

It is permitted to enter into a contract with a rental broker in the city or region subject of the license.

12․ Deleting article 5(2)(e), which stipulated:

It is not permitted to practice car rental with a driver.

13․ Deleting article 5(2)(f), which stipulated:

It is permitted to practice car rental by the hour, in accordance with the provisions of article 27.

14․ Amending article 5(3)(c) to read as follows:

Without prejudice to the provisions of article 9, one main headquarters must be provided in the city subject of the license, with the possibility of opening branches only within the city subject of the license. An establishment may open branches outside the city in accordance with the rating issued to it based on service measurement points.

15․ Deleting article 5(3)(d), which stipulated:

It is not permitted to enter into a contract with a rental broker.

12․ Deleting article 5(3)(e), which stipulated:

It is not permitted to practice car rental by the hour or with a driver.

17․ Amending article 5(4)(c) to read as follows:

One main headquarters must be provided at the level of the city subject of the license, provided that the city is not one of the following: Riyadh, Makkah Al-Mukarramah, Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah, Dammam Metropolitan Area, Jeddah, and Diriyah Governorate.

18․ Amending article 5(4)(d) to read as follows:

An establishment may open branches inside and outside the city subject of the license in accordance with the rating issued to it based on service measurement points.

19․ Deleting article 5(4)(e), which stipulated:

It is not permitted to enter into a contract with a rental broker.

20․ Deleting article 5(4)(f), which stipulated:

It is not permitted to practice car rental by the hour or with a driver.

21․ Amending article 5(5) to read as follows:

Luxury cars category.

19․ Deleting article 5(5)(e), which stipulated:

It is permitted to practice the activity of car rental by the hour or with a driver.

23‏. Adding article 5bis that reads as follows:

An establishment licensed to practice the activity of car rental may enter into a contract with a rental broker or provide rental services with a driver or by the hour based on its approved rating in accordance with service measurement points.

24․ Amending article 7 to read as follows:

1‏. The license conditions provided in article 4(1)(b), (2), (3), and (6) are essential for its validity. In the event of a breach of any of these conditions, the license must be suspended until the conditions are met or the license expires. A licensee shall not practice the activity until the condition is met, without prejudice to the right of the authority to impose the prescribed fine for that condition.

2․ If there is a shortage in the minimum number of vehicles required to practice the activity due to accidents or disasters beyond the control of a licensee, and the shortage is not rectified within 180 days from the date of the shortage, the license must be suspended, without prejudice to the right of the authority to impose the prescribed fine for that.

25․ Amending article 8(1) to read as follows:

Without prejudice to the provisions of articles 4 and 5, a license must be issued to the main headquarters in the name of the establishment for a period of three years.

26‏. Amending article 8(2) to read as follows:

A sub-license must be obtained for each branch from which the activity is practiced, and its classification and validity are linked to the main license, after fulfilling the license conditions provided in article 4(1), (2), and (7).

27․ ‏Amending article 11 to read as follows:

Without prejudice to the provisions of articles 4 and 5, an establishment licensed in the activity of car rental may change the license category after fulfilling the necessary conditions and requirements for the new category, after paying the fee and any fines (if any).

28․ Adding a paragraph numbered 4 to article 12 to read as follows:

4․ It is permitted to submit a renewal application and fulfill all its conditions within a period of 90 days from the expiry of the license, otherwise the license is considered canceled, without prejudice to the right of the authority to impose a fine for the delay in submitting the application.

29․ Amending article 13(3) to read as follows:

That the license is valid upon submitting the assignment application and until the license assignment is completed in the name of the assignee.

30‏. Amending article 14(2) to read as follows:

Deleting the activity from the Commercial Register.

31․ Amending article 15(1) to read as follows:

A license must be canceled after payment of fines (if any), otherwise the license is suspended in the event of non-payment, in the following cases:

32․ Deleting article 15(1)(c), which stipulated:

Canceling the license at the request of the establishment.

33‏. Amending article 15(1)(f) to read as follows:

A period of 90 days has passed since the expiry of the license without renewal.

34․ Deleting article 15(1)(g), which stipulated:

A period of 90 days has passed since the license was suspended without completing any of the license validity conditions.

35‏. Adding article 5(1)(h) that reads as follows:

(h) Failure to meet the approved minimum limit for calculating service measurement points twice in a row.

36․ Amending article 16 to read as follows:

Without prejudice to the provisions of the Traffic Law and its executive regulation, and the standard specifications for cars approved by the Saudi Standards, Metrology, and Quality Organization, an establishment licensed in the activity of car rental may rent out in accordance with the following:

1․ Renting out all types of passenger cars with no more than nine seats.

2․ Renting out all types of light transport vehicles with a gross weight not exceeding 3,500 kilograms, and the authority may exempt specific categories of vehicles with a gross weight exceeding 3,500 kilograms, which are used for special purposes.

37․ Amending article 17 to read as follows:

The operational lifespan of cars used in the activity of car rental must not exceed five years from the date of the year of manufacture, and the president may decide to increase the maximum operational lifespan for vehicles that operate on clean energy.

38‏. Adding article 18(1)(j) that reads as follows:

(j) That the car is owned by the establishment or through finance lease contracts, provided that the establishment is the actual user of the car.

39․ Amending article 18(2) to read as follows:

Without prejudice to the provisions of article 18(1), a vehicle operating card must be issued for a period of one year, provided that the validity date of the card does not exceed the expiry date of the license of the establishment or the operational lifespan of the vehicle, whichever is earlier, and the status of the card is linked to the status of the license issued to the establishment.

40․ Amending article 18(3) to read as follows:

The conditions for obtaining an operating card for the luxury car category must be issued by a decision of the president.

41․ Amending article 20 to read as follows:

A vehicle operating card must be canceled in the following cases:

(a) Cancellation of the license.

(b) Expiration of the operational lifespan of the car.

(c) A request submitted by the licensed establishment after payment of the fines (if any).

42․ Adding article 20bis that reads as follows:

It is permitted, by a decision of the president, to determine the controls and obligations to operate under the franchise model in the activity of car rental.

43․ Amending article 21 to read as follows:

An establishment licensed to practice the activity shall connect to the electronic system specified by the authority and issue its contracts through it, while adhering to the contract form, and it may add to it provisions that do not conflict with its articles, after obtaining the approval of the authority.

44․ Amending article 22 to read as follows:

A contract must include, at a minimum, the following requirements, data, and information, and the establishment shall verify their accuracy:

45․ Amending article 24 to read as follows:

An establishment licensed to practice the activity shall provide the renter with a copy of:

1․ ‏The contract after it is signed by both parties.

2‏. The settlement if there are no financial obligations at the time of returning the vehicle, if requested by the renter.

3․ Proof that the car has been received if the contract has not been closed due to financial obligations, and the renter has requested this.

46․ Amending article 27 to read as follows:

Without prejudice to the provisions of article 5, cars are rented by the hour to permitted establishments, in accordance with the following conditions:

47․ Amending article 27(1) to read as follows:

That the permitted hours for car rental with a driver are not less than six hours.

48․ Amending article 28 to read as follows:

Without prejudice to the provisions of article 5bis, an establishment licensed in the activity of car rental may rent out a car with a driver employed by the establishment, in accordance with the following conditions:

49․ Adding numbering to article 30 such that it reads as follows:

(a) A renter and those authorized by the contract to drive the car shall:

50․ Adding article 30(b) that reads as follows:

(b) ‏A lessor may refuse to rent out a vehicle to a renter if there are existing financial claims against the renter in favor of the lessor that are documented with the competent entities.

51․ Amending article 31(5) to read as follows:

A copy of the license, its approved rating in accordance with service measurement points, a copy of the obligations of the establishment licensed to practice the activity and the renter, and the conditions that the renter must meet must be displayed in the main headquarters and branches in a place visible to all.

52․ Amending article 31(7) to read as follows:

The authority must be provided with the information and data it requests in accordance with the following periods:

(a) ‏Urgent requests: Within a maximum period of six hours from the time of the request. ‏

(b) Other requests: Within a maximum period of 48 hours from the time of the request.

53‏. Deleting article 31(8), which stipulated:

Refraining from mortgaging the official documents belonging to the renter for the purpose of renting him a car or performing any actions that would harm him.

54‏. Deleting article 31(9), which stipulated:

Not photocopying official documents belonging to the renter for the purpose of renting them a car, and sufficing with recording all data automatically from those documents in the electronic systems specified by the authority.

55․ Amending article 31(15) to read as follows:

Establishing a mechanism for returning lost items to their owners, which must include contact numbers, and complying with any instructions issued by the authority.

56․ Adding article 31(24) that reads as follows:

24․ That the amount of fuel in the car standard tank is not less than a quarter as a minimum when the vehicle is handed over to the renter.

57‏. Adding article 31(25) that reads as follows:

25․ Providing a child safety seat at the request of the renter.

56․ Adding article 31(26) that reads as follows:

26․ The date and time of reporting a car theft is considered the end of the rental contract, provided there is proof of reporting the theft from the competent entities.

59․ Adding article 31(27) that reads as follows:

27․ A renter does not sign any additional papers other than the contract for the purpose of renting.

60‏. Adding article 31bis that reads as follows:

A renter shall not smoke in the car, and the licensee may impose a fine on the renter in case of non-compliance, taking into account the following:

1․ Informing the renter that smoking is not permitted in the rented vehicle.

2‏. That there is proof that the renter has been informed that smoking is not permitted in the rented vehicle.

61․ Amending article 32(1) to read as follows:

Subjecting a car to insurance coverage that covers—at a minimum—civil liability against third parties in accordance with the unified mandatory insurance policy and includes all age groups for vehicles throughout the operating period, the duration of the contract, or any extension to it. Under no circumstances does the liability resulting from this type of coverage transfer to the renter, and the establishment shall bear full liability for renting out a car without any insurance coverage.

62‏. Amending article 34(1) to read as follows:

Entering into a contract with an establishment licensed in the activity of car rental, which is permitted to enter into a contract with an insurance broker based on its approved rating in accordance with service measurement points.

63․ Amending article 35(16) to read as follows:

Not transporting persons or goods for a fee except with the approval of the lessor, without prejudice to other relevant legislation.

64․ Amending article 35(20) to read as follows:

Not subleasing the car to a third party, and the president may issue regulations to govern this.

65․ Amending article 36(6) to read as follows:

Damages resulting from traffic accidents that are not covered by the insurance policy or the additional insurance coverage specified in the contract.

66‏. Adding article 36bis to read as follows:

Establishments licensed to practice the activity may provide the booking service through electronic channels, taking into account the following:

First

An establishment shall place its approved rating in accordance with the service measurement points in the electronic channels.

Second

An establishment shall, when providing services through electronic channels, comply with the following:

1․ Clarifying the necessary means of communication for complaints, inquiries, and reports.

2․ Having a clear pricing policy.

3․ Having a clear policy to govern the process of canceling or modifying a booking by the beneficiary or the lessor.

4․ Obtaining the acknowledgment of the beneficiary that he has read the pricing policy and cancellation and modification policy before completing the booking process.

5․ Verifying that the beneficiary meets the rental conditions stipulated in article 30, in accordance with the data entered by the beneficiary, before completing the booking process.

6․ Providing the beneficiary with a booking reference number.

7․ If the car booked by the beneficiary is not available—and after the approval of the beneficiary—the car must be replaced with a car of the same class. If a car of the same class is not available, it must be replaced with a car of the next higher class without any additional costs to the renter. If a car of the higher class is also not available, it must be replaced with a car of a lower class in accordance with the tariff announced through electronic channels, after the approval of the beneficiary and the refund of the price difference to the beneficiary.

Third

Without prejudice to the right of the authority to impose the prescribed fine, an establishment shall refund the amounts paid in advance through electronic channels in the following cases:

(a) Canceling the booking by the beneficiary or the lessor, without prejudice to the policy approved by the establishment.

(b) Not replacing the vehicle in accordance with Second(7).

(c) Unavailability of additional services and equipment specified in the booking.

(d) Failure to verify that the beneficiary meets the rental conditions as provided in Second(5).

(e) Failure to execute the booking for any other reasons.

Fourth

An establishment has the right, in case the data of the beneficiary is incorrect, to cancel the booking, taking into account Second(3).

67․ Amending article 37 to read as follows:

The president or his delegate shall approve the points calculation criteria applied to the licensed establishment practicing the activity to measure the level of services provided and the extent of its compliance with the provisions of this regulation.

68․ Deleting article 38, which stipulated:

The president or his delegate may—after approving the points calculation criteria—issue a decision not to renew the license if it exceeds the maximum limit approved for points calculation for adherence to the level of service and compliance with the provisions of this regulation.

69‏. Deleting article 39, which stipulated:

Points calculated are subject to the provisions of this regulation.

70․ Amending article 50 to read as follows:

If a renter does not receive the car from the establishment licensed to practice the activity for any reason, the renter shall contact the authority to take the necessary measures.

71․ Amending article 51 to read as follows:

In the event of a dispute between the parties to the contract arising from the assessment of damages resulting from non-traffic accidents, misuse, or wear and tear, the establishment licensed to practice the activity shall assess the damage to the car through a valuation entity accredited by the Saudi Authority for Accredited Valuers, provided that the party who caused the damage shall bear the cost of the inspection and the report.

72․ Amending violation 8 of the Violations and Punishments Schedule to read as follows:

An establishment licensed to practice the activity of car rental renting out a car with a driver if its approved rating in accordance with the service measurement points does not permit it to do so.

73‏. Amending violation 9 of the Violations and Punishments Schedule to read as follows:

An establishment licensed to practice the activity of car rental renting out a car by the hour if its approved rating in accordance with the service measurement points does not permit it to do so.

74․ Amending violation 16 of the Violations and Punishments Schedule to read as follows:

An establishment licensed to practice the activity of car rental renting out a car that is not subject to the specifications and conditions of the provisions of the regulation.

75‏. Amending violation 26 of the Violations and Punishments Schedule to read as follows:

Failure to provide the renter with a copy of the settlement receipt when there are no financial obligations at the time of returning the vehicle, at the request of the renter.

76․ Amending violation 29 of the Violations and Punishments Schedule to read as follows:

An establishment licensed to practice the activity of car rental renting out a car with a driver by the hour for a period of less than six hours.

77․ Amending violation 41 of the Violations and Punishments Schedule to read as follows:

Failure to provide the authority with urgent information and data within the specified period, and the value of the fine is 5,000 Riyal.

78․ Amending violation 49 of the Violations and Punishments Schedule to read as follows:

Failure to establish a mechanism for returning lost items to their owners, which includes contact numbers, and complying with any instructions issued by the authority.

79․ Amending violation 61 of the Violations and Punishments Schedule to read as follows:

Failure of an establishment licensed to practice the activity of car rental to maintain the cleanliness of the car inside and out and its readiness for rental.

80․ Amending violation 69 of the Violations and Punishments Schedule to read as follows:

Failure of an establishment licensed to practice the activity to have the damage to the vehicle assessed by a valuation entity accredited by the Saudi Authority for Accredited Valuers in case of disagreement on the damage assessment, and the value of the fine is 2,000 Riyal.

81‏. Adding a violation numbered 70 to the Violations and Punishments Schedule that reads as follows:

Failure to provide the authority with information and other data in accordance with the specified period, and the value of the fine is 3,000 Riyal.

82․ Adding a violation numbered 71 to the Violations and Punishments Schedule that reads as follows:

Failure to provide the renter with confirmation of vehicle receipt when the contract is not closed due to outstanding financial obligations, and the renter requests this, and the value of the fine is 1,000 Riyal.

83․ Adding a violation numbered 72 to the Violations and Punishments Schedule that reads as follows:

Failure to issue the contract through the electronic system specified by the authority, and the value of the fine is 4,000 Riyal.

84․ Adding a violation numbered 73 to the Violations and Punishments Schedule that reads as follows:

If an establishment licensed to practice the activity of car rental rents out a car with less than a quarter tank of fuel, and the value of the fine is 1,000 Riyal.

85․ Adding a violation numbered 74 to the Violations and Punishments Schedule that reads as follows:

Failure to consider the date and time of reporting the car theft as the end of the rental contract, when there is proof of reporting the theft from the competent entities, and the value of the fine is 3,000 Riyal.

86․ Adding a violation numbered 75 to the Violations and Punishments Schedule that reads as follows:

Practicing the activity of car rental with an expired license, and the value of the fine is 5,000 Riyal.

87․ Adding a violation numbered 76 to the Violations and Punishments Schedule that reads as follows:

Practicing the activity of rental brokerage with an expired license, and the value of the fine is 5,000 Riyal.

88․ Adding a violation numbered 77 to the Violations and Punishments Schedule that reads as follows:

An establishment licensed to practice the activity of car rental rents out a car with a canceled operating card, and the value of the fine is 5,000 Riyal.

89․ Adding a violation numbered 78 to the Violations and Punishments Schedule that reads as follows:

An establishment recovers or stops a car without referring to the competent entity, and the value of the fine is 2,000 Riyal.

90․ Adding a violation numbered 79 to the Violations and Punishments Schedule that reads as follows:

An establishment submits a renewal application within a period of 90 days from the expiry of the license, and the value of the fine is 2,000 Riyal.

91․ Adding a violation numbered 80 to the Violations and Punishments Schedule that reads as follows:

Failure to provide a child safety seat at the request of the renter, and the value of the fine is 1,000 Riyal.

92․ Adding a violation numbered 81 to the Violations and Punishments Schedule that reads as follows:

Failure to clarify the necessary means of communication for complaints, inquiries, and reports through electronic channels, and the value of the fine is 1,000 Riyal.

93․ Adding a violation numbered 82 to the Violations and Punishments Schedule that reads as follows:

Lack of a clear pricing policy through electronic channels, and the value of the fine is 500 Riyal.

94․ Adding a violation numbered 83 to the Violations and Punishments Schedule that reads as follows:

Lack of a clear policy for a user to cancel or modify the booking through electronic channels, and the value of the fine is 500 Riyals.

95․ Adding a violation numbered 84 to the Violations and Punishments Schedule that reads as follows:

Failure to verify that the rental conditions are met by a user before completing the booking through electronic channels, and the value of the fine is 1,000 Riyals.

96․ Adding a violation numbered 85 to the Violations and Punishments Schedule that reads as follows:

Failure to comply with the booking or booking details through electronic channels, and the value of the fine is 3,000 Riyals.

97․ Adding a violation numbered 86 to the Violations and Punishments Schedule that reads as follows:

Failure of the establishment to refund amounts paid in advance through electronic channels, and the value of the fine is 2,000 Riyal.

98․ Adding a violation numbered 87 to the Violations and Punishments Schedule that reads as follows:

Failure to verify the validity of the requirements, data, or information included in the contract, and the value of the fine is 2,000 Riyal.

99․ Adding a violation numbered 88 to the Violations and Punishments Schedule that reads as follows:

A renter signs additional documents other than the contract for the purpose of renting, and the value of the fine is 3,000 Riyal.

100․ Adding a violation numbered 89 to the Violations and Punishments Schedule that reads as follows:

Failure to place a copy of the approved rating in accordance with the service measurement points, in a place visible to all in the main headquarters for the practice of the activity or any of its branches, and the value of the fine is 500 Riyal.

101․ Adding a violation numbered 90 to the Violations and Punishments Schedule that reads as follows:

Failure to place the approved rating in accordance with the service measurement points in electronic channels, and the value of the fine is 500 Riyal.

102․ Adding a violation numbered 91 to the Violations and Punishments Schedule that reads as follows:

An establishment licensed to practice the activity of car rental enters into a contract with a rental broker if the rating issued to it based on service measurement points does not permit it to do so, and the value of the fine is 3,000 Riyal.

103․ Adding a violation numbered 92 to the Violations and Punishments Schedule that reads as follows:

Failure to comply with the controls and obligations related to the commercial franchise model in the activity of car rental, and the value of the fine is 3,000 Riyal.

104․ Adding a violation numbered 93 to the Violations and Punishments Schedule that reads as follows:

Failure to provide the beneficiary with a booking reference number, and the value of the fine is 500 Riyal.

105․ Adding a violation numbered 94 to the Violations and Punishments Schedule that reads as follows:

Failure of an establishment licensed to practice the activity of car rental to subject the car to insurance coverage that includes all age groups, and the value of the fine is 3,000 Riyal.

Second

These amendments enter into force from the date of their publication in the official gazette.

Third

The President of the Transport General Authority is hereby authorized to approve the appropriate mechanisms to implement the provisions of this regulation and issue the necessary decisions and circulars for this.

Fourth

The President of the Transport General Authority shall take the necessary measures to implement this decision.

May Allah provide success.

Minister of Transport and Logistics Services
Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser

Issued on: 20 Sha’ban 1446
Corresponding to: 19 February 2025

Published in Umm Al-Qura 5073 issued on 28 February 2025.

Tags Transport General Authority

Council of Ministers Decision

Council of Ministers: Decision 614 Approving the Law of Carriage by Land on Roads

Post author By Decree
Post date 17 February 2025

Arabic

The Council of Ministers,

after perusal of Royal Court File 56299 dated 4 Sha’ban 1446 [3 February 2025], which includes the Transport General Authority Letter 60 dated 10 Muharram 1441 [9 September 2019] regarding the draft Law of Carriage by Land on Roads, and the Minister of Transport and Logistics Services, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Transport General Authority, Letter 2458 dated 1 Jumada Al-Thani 1446 [2 December 2024] regarding the phenomenon of foreign trucks practicing domestic transport in an illegal manner,

after perusal of the mentioned draft law,

after perusal of the Concession Agreement between the Government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Saudi Arabian Oil Company (Saudi Aramco) approved by Royal Decree D/38 dated 6 Rabi Al-Thani 1439 [24 December 2017],

after perusal of the System of the Transport General Authority issued by Council of Ministers Decision 323 dated 14 Ramadan 1434 [22 July 2013],

after perusal of the Bureau of Experts at the Council of Ministers Minutes 30 dated 20 Muharram 1444 [18 August 2022], Memorandum 3303 dated 8 Dhu Al-Qa’dah 1444 [28 May 2023], Memorandum 319 dated 28 Muharram 1445 [15 August 2023], Memorandum 2161 dated 15 Jumada Al-Thani 1445 [28 December 2023], Memorandum 4009 dated 21 Dhu Al-Qa’dah 1445 [29 May 2024], Memorandum 140 dated 8 Muharram 1446 [14 July 2024], Memorandum 2189 dated 18 Jumada Al-Thani 1446 [19 December 2024], and Memorandum 2461 dated 9 Rajab 1446 [9 January 2025],

after perusal of the Council of Economic and Development Affairs Recommendation 16-1/46/R dated 26 Muharram 1446 [1 August 2024],

after considering Shura Council Decision 69/8 dated 9 Rabi Al-Thani 1445 [24 October 2023], 110/11 dated 1 Jumada Al-Thani 1446 [2 December 2024], and 183/18 dated 28 Rajab 1446 [28 January 2025],

and after perusal of the General Committee of the Council of Ministers Recommendation 8350 dated 17 Sha’ban 1446 [16 February 2025],

hereby decides

First

The Law of Carriage by Land on Roads is hereby approved in the form attached.

Second

The entry into force of the law—referred to in clause First of this decree—must not prejudice the Concession Agreement between the Government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Saudi Arabian Oil Company (Saudi Aramco) approved by Royal Decree D/38 dated 6 Rabi Al-Thani 1439 [24 December 2017] regarding the right granted to the company to transport hydrocarbon materials.

Third

Carriage by land on roads establishments shall adjust their status within a period not exceeding one year from the date of entry into force of the law—referred to in clause First of this decision—in conformity with it, according to the mechanism set by the Transport General Authority. The chairman of the board of directors of the authority may extend this period—as he sees fit in this regard ‏—for a period not exceeding an additional six months.

Fourth

The Transport General Authority shall carry out the following:

1․ Review its system—issued by Council of Ministers Decision 323 dated 14 Ramadan 1434 [22 July 2013]—in light of the provisions contained in the law referred to in clause First of this decision, propose the necessary matters in this regard, and report to complete the legal procedures.

2․ Coordinate with the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Interior‏—each according to its mandate—regarding educational transport, which falls under the activities of scheduled transport; with the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, the Ministry of Interior, the Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites, and the Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah Region Development Authority—each according to its mandate—regarding the transport of Hajj pilgrims and Umrah pilgrims, which falls under the activities of scheduled and non-scheduled transport; with the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources regarding the transport of goods related to the industrial and mining sector; and with the Ministry of Energy regarding the transport of energy products. This must be done when preparing the executive regulations of the law—referred to in clause First of this decision—relevant to these matters.

3․ Coordinate with the General Authority of Civil Aviation and any other entities it sees fit related to the activities of air transport, maritime transport, railway transport, and carriage by land, to prepare memoranda of understanding to govern the aspects related to licensing the activity of brokerage in multimodal transport of goods subject to the legal supervision of those entities, in accordance with the provisions of the law referred to in clause First of this decision, its executive regulations, and the relevant legal provisions, and to determine the role of each of them in this regard taking into account the integration of their roles provided that the preparation of those memoranda is completed and signed before the law comes into force.

Fifth

The Board of Directors of the Transport General Authority shall exercise its powers stipulated in article 17 of the law—referred to in clause First of this decision—in agreement with the Ministry of Finance and the Non-Oil Revenue Development Center, until the issuance of the draft Regulation for the Practice by Public Authorities and Establishments and Their Equivalent of Imposing a Fee for the Services and Works They Provide and its entry into force.

Sixth

The relevant entities shall, when preparing studies and detailed plans related to activities of carriage by land on roads, coordinate with the Transport General Authority.

Seventh

The Chairman of the Transport General Authority shall issue the schedule stipulated in article 23(1) of the law referred to in clause First of this decision, within a period not exceeding 180 days from the date of publication of the law.

Eighth

The Board of Directors of the Transport General Authority shall determine the transportation fares for any activities of railway transport it deems appropriate, and any activities of maritime transport it deems appropriate, based on the policies—set by it in this regard—that must explain the pricing principles, without prejudice to the international obligations of the Kingdom.

Ninth

The Transport General Authority shall coordinate with the Ministry of Interior, the Ministry of Transport and Logistics Services, the General Authority of Civil Aviation, and the Roads General Authority to make the necessary arrangements for security and supervisory support to implement the provisions related to policing violations of carriage by land on roads without a license, stipulated in the law referred to in clause First of this decision.

Tenth

As an exception to the provisions of article 34 of the law—referred to in clause First of this decision—foreign trucks proven to be transporting within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia must be issued violation tickets and punished in accordance with the provisions of the law—referred to in clause First of this decision— from the date of its publication, provided that the Chairman of the Transport General Authority completes the necessary procedures to implement the provisions of this clause simultaneously with the date of publication of the law referred to in clause First of this decision.

A draft royal decree has been prepared for clauses First, Second, Third, Eighth, and Tenth of this decision in the form attached.

The Prime Minister

Issued on: 19 Sha’ban 1446
Corresponding to: 18 February 2025

Published in Umm Al-Qura 5073 issued on 28 February 2025.

Council of Ministers Decision

Council of Ministers: Decision 615 Amending the System of the Saudi Tourism Authority

Post author By Decree
Post date 17 February 2025

Arabic

The Council of Ministers,

after perusal of Royal Court File 71382 dated 1 Shawwal 1445 [10 April 2024], including the Minister of Hajj and Umrah Telegram 450925025 dated 26 Ramadan 1445 [5 April 2024] regarding the request to add the ministry to the membership of the Board of Directors of the Saudi Tourism Authority,

after perusal of the System of the Saudi Tourism Authority issued by Council of Ministers Decision 632 dated 3 Sha’ban 1445 [13 February 2024],

after perusal of Bureau of Experts at the Council of Ministers Memorandum 47 dated 3 Muharram 1446 [9 July 2024], Memorandum 2087 dated 11 Jumada Al-Thani 1446 [12 December 2024], and Memorandum 2569 dated 15 Rajab 1446 [15 January 2025],

after perusal of the Council of Economic and Development Affairs Minutes 641/46/M dated 14 Rabi Al-Thani 1446 [17 October 2024],

and after perusal of the General Committee of the Council of Ministers Recommendation 7738 dated 27 Rajab 1446 [27 January 2025],

hereby decides

Article 5(1) of the System of the Saudi Tourism Authority issued by Council of Ministers Decision 632 dated 3 Sha’ban 1445 [13 February 2024] is hereby amended by adding a representative of the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah to the membership of the Board of Directors of the Saudi Tourism Authority, and its subparagraphs are reordered accordingly.

The Prime Minister

Issued on: 19 Sha’ban 1446
Corresponding to: 18 February 2025

Published in Umm Al-Qura 5073 issued on 28 February 2025.

Council of Ministers Decision

Council of Ministers: Decision 616 Amending the Guide for Preparing Annual Reports of Public Agencies

Post author By Decree
Post date 17 February 2025

Arabic

The Council of Ministers,

after perusal of Royal Court File 17421 dated 10 Rabi Al-Awwal 1446 [13 September 2024], including the Head of the Bureau of Experts at the Council of Ministers Telegram 1753 dated 2 Rabi Al-Awwal 1446 [5 September 2024] regarding the observation that the annual reports of government agencies are being referred to the bureau containing the decision of the Shura Council without the accompanying views of the agency on the contents of the decision,

after perusal of the Guide for Preparing Annual Reports of Public Agencies issued by Council of Ministers Decision 233 dated 18 Rabi Al-Thani 1443 [23 November 2021],

after perusal of Bureau of Experts at the Council of Ministers Memorandum 48 dated 2 Rabi Al-Awwal 1446 [5 September 2024], Memorandum 72 dated 12 Rabi Al-Thani 1446 [15 October 2024], and Memorandum 1702 dated 15 Jumada Al-Awwal 1446 [17 November 2024],

after perusal of the Council of Economic and Development Affairs Minutes 941/46/M dated 4 Jumada Al-Thani 1446 [5 December 2024],

and after perusal of the General Committee of the Council of Ministers Recommendation 6664 dated 28 Jumada Al-Thani 1446 [29 December 2024],

hereby decides

Paragraph 2(c) of General Provisions of the Guide for Preparing Annual Reports for Public Agencies issued by Council of Ministers Decision 233 dated 18 Rabi Al-Thani 1443 [23 November 2021] is hereby amended to read as follows: “The Royal Court shall refer to the General Committee of the Council of Ministers the file regarding the decision of the Shura Council issued regarding the annual report of the public agency immediately upon its receipt, and shall provide the agency with a copy of the decision accompanied by the council explanatory memorandum, in preparation for referring the file to the Bureau of Experts at the Council of Ministers for review jointly with the relevant entities.

The agency shall provide the bureau with its views—approved and documented by its most senior official—regarding the contents of the decision within a period not exceeding 15 days from the date of providing it to the agency. The bureau may extend it for a period not exceeding 15 additional days. If the public agency does not provide the bureau with its views, the bureau may complete the review of the file in light of the available documents and its findings in the regard, or return it to complete the necessary action.

The Prime Minister

Issued on: 19 Sha’ban 1446
Corresponding to: 18 February 2025

Published in Umm Al-Qura 5073 issued on 28 February 2025.

Circular

Royal Court: Circular 59641 Approving the Regulation of the Personal Status Law

Post author By Decree
Post date 15 February 2025

Arabic

Having perused the Secretary General of the Council of Ministers Letter 1066 dated 20 Muharram 1446 [26 July 2024] regarding the file containing Minister of Justice Telegram 436418148 dated 16 Dhu Al-Qa’dah 1443 [15 June 2022], to which the draft Regulation of the Personal Status Law is attached, and as clarified by the secretary general that the Bureau of Experts at the Council of Ministers has prepared Minutes 7 dated 9 Muharram 1446 [15 July 2024] regarding the matter, which includes the following recommendation:

1․ The Regulation of the Personal Status Law is hereby approved in the form attached to the mentioned minutes of the Bureau of Experts at the Council of Ministers.

2․ The Minister of Justice shall carry out the following:

(a) Setting the arrangements for hearing the lawsuit to prove a marriage contract that was concluded without the permission of the competent entity where permission is required, in coordination with the relevant entities.

(b) Submitting any other necessary regulations for the Personal Status Law when necessary, and in accordance with new judicial applications of the law and the regulation referred to in paragraph 1 above. The secretary general clarified the views of the General Committee of the Council of Ministers in this regard. We also perused the secretary general Letter 2362 dated 18 Safar 1446 [22 August 2024] in this regard.

We hereby inform you of our approval of this, so complete the required matters accordingly.

Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud
Prime Minister

Issued on: 17 Sha’ban 1446
Corresponding to: 16 February 2025

Published in Umm Al-Qura 5072 issued on 21 February 2025.

Laws and Regulations

The Regulation of the Personal Status Law

Post author By Decree
Post date 15 February 2025

Arabic

Issued by Royal Court Circular 59641

Article 1

The presence of a person watching them who is of discernment is considered a form of the lack of khilwa between spouses in accordance with the provisions of article 7 of the law is

Article 2

A marriage contract between a non-Muslim man and a non-Muslim woman, whether the nationalities of the two parties are the same or different, must be attested in accordance with the provisions of the Attestation Law.

Article 3

1․ Without prejudice to the relevant legal provisions, permission to marry those under the age of 18 years—in accordance with article 9 of the law—is subject to the following:

(a) A request for permission to marry must be submitted by the boy or the girl (those wishing to marry), their legal guardian, or the mother of either of them.

(b) The consent of those wishing to marry by their explicit declaration before the court, and the opinion of the mother on the matter must also be heard. If it is not possible to hear her opinion, the court shall decide accordingly and permit the marriage.

(c) Those wishing to marry must have reached puberty and are physically and mentally mature, and that marriage does not pose a risk to them, by virtue of the following:

‏- A medical report.

‏- Two reports: Psychological and social. A judge may suffice with one of them if the report includes clarification on the extent of psychological and social compatibility of those wishing to marry.

2․ The provisions of paragraph 1 of this article apply to the marriage of a Saudi male to a non-Saudi female and a Saudi female to a non-Saudi male if the contract is made within the Kingdom.

Article 4

If both parties are not proficient in Arabic, the wording is considered clear in the offer and acceptance of the marriage contract if it is clear in their language, and if their languages differ, it is valid in the language that both of them are proficient in if it is clear in it.

Article 5

If the marriage contract is made by digital means, the offer and acceptance of the contract are considered legally to have occurred in one session, and the Ministry of Justice shall set the necessary procedures and controls in this regard.

Article 6

The court shall verify the inability of a guardian to attend the marriage or the inability to notify him through the competent entity, in accordance with the notification procedures established by law.

Article 7

The court may delegate an authorized person—in accordance with the legal provisions—to conduct a marriage contract for a woman whose father is unknown, provided that the contract explicitly states that he is assigned to have the woman married.

Article 8

Without prejudice to the provisions of article 17(1) of the law, if the request of the woman for marriage is based on her being severed from her guardians, due to the absence, loss, or death of the guardian, the request must be considered final and proven by evidence if any, otherwise, one of the cases of severance must be verified by any means of proof or in writing to the competent entity in accordance with the law.

Article 9

If a woman appoints a guardian in accordance with article 17(2) of the law, the marriage contract must include proof of this.

Article 10

If the person authorized delegated in accordance with the provisions of article 20 of the law, it must be explicitly stated that he is assigned to have the woman married.

Article 11

In order to implement article 20 of the law, the following are considered to be an interested party: A relative of adhal woman and the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development.

Article 12

Proof of adhal does not require the presence of a person who has made an engagement proposal nor his attendance if he is present.

Article 13

If adhal has been proven for a adhal woman in accordance with article 20 of the law and the reason for adhal is not specific to her, then this applies to the rest of the women under the guardianship of the adhal guardian if one of them requests this and the request must be considered final.

Article 14

A ruling proving adhal does not prevent the adhal guardian from conducting the marriage contract if the adhal woman agrees to this.

Article 15

The court shall take into account the opinion of the adhal woman when transferring the guardianship of her marriage to any of the guardians.

Article 16

The effects of the marriage contract mentioned in article 34 of the law arise if it is without the consent of the guardian, without witnesses, or is a marriage of a Hajj or Umrah muhrim, and it may be attested after correcting it as prescribed by the law.

Article 17

The dowry stated in the contract is the dowry agreed upon, unless the spouses agree otherwise.

Article 18

The determination of the dowry of a woman must be based on the dowry of her female relatives from both her paternal and maternal sides.

Article 19

A custodian is not entitled to housing expenses for a child in custody if either of them resides in a residence owned by or allocated to him, or if the custodian resides as a dependant of someone else. The foregoing must take into account the interest of the child in custody.

Article 20

A custodian is not entitled to claim housing rent if the person obligated to pay maintenance provides suitable housing for the child in custody.

Article 21

In accordance with articles 49 and 50 of the law, if interim maintenance is ruled for the person entitled to it and there is a lawsuit for permanent maintenance, then the following must be taken into account:

1․ If the ruling is in favor of the wife, the court shall, when ruling on permanent maintenance, take into account the interim maintenance it has ruled, whether an increase or decrease, provided that the husband or wife claims this, as the case may be.

2․ If the ruling is in favor of the children or parents, the permanent maintenance must be calculated from the date of ruling it, without taking into account the interim maintenance that it ruled.

Article 22

In accordance with article 58 of the law, if a married daughter is not entitled to maintenance from her husband in accordance with article 51 of the law, the maintenance of the father or of the person who is obligated to pay maintenance to her must continue.

Article 23

If a ruling is issued to provide maintenance to a child in custody, the ruling must include delivering it to the custodian without specifying him, and the subsequent custodian replaces the preceding custodian in receiving maintenance.

Article 24

For the purposes of applying article 58(2) of the law, a son is not considered capable of earning a living unless he has completed 18 years of age, provided that this does not conflict with completing his education with ordinary success.

Article 25

The following are among the exceptional circumstances mentioned in article 70 of the law:

1․ Suspected newborn switching in hospitals.

2‏. Unidentified persons in accidents or disasters.

Article 26

The right of a wife to claim the annulment of a marriage contract due to a defect in the husband that prevents marital relations is not forfeited merely because she remained silent about the claim.

Article 27

Testimony by istifadha based on the reputation of the life of the spouses together is one of the means of proving the occurrence of harm in order to annul the marriage contract, but such testimony is not admissible to deny harm.

Article 28

The court may—after completion of the relevant legal procedures—annul the marriage if the wife claims this because she fears that the marital rights will not be fulfilled and that the husband will refuse to divorce her or perform a khula, provided that she returns the dowry she received.

Article 29

Taking into account articles 110 and 111 of the law, mediators shall comply with the following:

1․ That they request the presence of both spouses or one of them.

2․ That the report includes the statements of the spouses and those whose testimony was heard.

Article 30

Based on articles 42, 110, and 111 of the law, if the mediators are unable to reconcile between the spouses in case of discord, they shall recommend any of the following:

1‏. Separating them without compensation, if all the causes of discord are from the husband.

2․ Separating them for the full dowry received, if all the causes of discord are from the wife.

3․ Separating them based on compensation proportional to the extent of discord caused by each of them.

4․ Separating them for half the dowry, if the cause of discord is not identified.

In all cases, the duration of the marital relation must be taken into account.

Article 31

The court may, after reading the report of the mediators, decide any of the following:

1‏. Adopting the opinion of the mediators.

2‏. Annulling the marriage contract and determining the compensation it deems appropriate.

In all cases, the marriage contract must not be annulled for compensation received by the wife except with her consent.

Article 32

Taking into account articles 124 and 138 of the law, the custodian is responsible for the interests of the child in custody, and may carry out the following in particular:

1․ Following up on matters related to the child in custody with public and private entities and completing the necessary procedures, including accessing the digital applications and platforms of the child in custody for this purpose.

2‏. Receiving the support and payment disbursed to the child in custody from public and private entities.

3․ Keeping copies of the supporting records and documents relating to the ward, or any of their originals if necessary.

Article 33

Taking into account article 125 of the law, if a child in custody is under the age of two years, his custody must be to the mother even if she marries a man who is a stranger to him.

Article 34

For the purposes of applying the provisions of article 126 of the law, a stranger means someone who is not a relative in accordance with the provisions of article 224 of the law.

Article 35

A father or a mother shall take custody in accordance with the provisions of article 131 of the law based on a lawsuit filed by either of them or by any of the relevant entities.

Article 36

A custodian is not entitled to payment for custody unless the court appoints him in accordance with the provisions of article 132 of the law.

Article 37

Without prejudice to the provisions of the law, when determining who must take a child in custody and return him for visitation and accompanying, the following must be taken into account: The interest of the child in custody, his place of residence, and the circumstances of the parties to the dispute.

Article 38

1․ The Ministry of Justice shall—in coordination with the relevant entities—prepare forms and procedures for claims for assessment of maintenance, custody, and visitation, and this must be approved by the court.

2․ If separation occurs between spouses in accordance with the provisions of article 76 of the law, then either of them may—depending on the circumstances—submit an application for custody, visitation, or child support electronically, and a document must be issued regarding the application in accordance with the forms and procedures stipulated in paragraph 1 of this article, and it is considered an enforcement document after its approval by the court. The provisions of this paragraph apply to any application regarding custody, visitation, or child support before the separation occurs.

3․ ‏Any interested party may object to the provisions in the document referred to in paragraph 2 of this article by filing a lawsuit with the court, and the court may order a stay of execution if there is a fear that harm may occur.

Article 39

When determining a similar entity mentioned in article 185 of the law, it must be taken into account that it achieves the purpose of the testator as much as possible. In all cases, it is not permitted to transfer the bequest disbursement except in accordance with the legal provisions.

Article 40

Without prejudice to the relevant legal provisions, the competent entities supervising the registration of property shall inform any of the heirs—upon their request‏—with the following:

1․ The rights of their testator and his fixed and movable property.

2‏. Providing him with a copy of the statements relating to the property of their testator that were made after the date of his death.

Article 41

The regulation must be published in the official gazette, and comes into force from the date of its publication.

Published in Umm Al-Qura 5072 issued on 21 February 2025.

Royal Decree

Royal Decree D/180 Amending the Law of the Public Prosecution and the Law of the Board of Grievances

Post author By Decree
Post date 15 February 2025

Arabic

With the help of Allah the Almighty,

We, Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, the King of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia,

based on article 70 of the Basic Law of Governance issued by Royal Order O/90 dated 27 Sha’ban 1412 [1 March 1992],

based on article 20 of the Law of the Council of Ministers issued by Royal Order O/13 dated 3 Rabi Al-Awwal 1414 [20 August 1993],

based on article 18 of the Law of the Shura Council issued by Royal Order O/91 dated 27 Sha’ban 1412 [1 March 1992],

after perusal of Shura Council Decision 128/12 dated 2 Jumada Al-Thani 1446 [3 December 2024],

and after perusal of Council of Ministers Decision 594 dated 12 Sha’ban 1446 [11 February 2025],

have decreed as follows

First

Article 4(1) of the Law of the Public Prosecution issued by Royal Decree D/56 dated 24 Shawwal 1409 [29 May 1989] is hereby amended to read as follows:

1․ ‏A council named the “Public Prosecution Council” is hereby established and consists of the following:

(a) The Attorney General—Chairman

(b) The Deputy Attorney General—Member and deputy chairman

(c) Seven members of the Public Prosecution, none of whom are of a rank lower than Head of the Investigation and Prosecution Directorate A—Members

(d) Those with expertise and competence—Two members

The Attorney General shall nominate the members referred to in subparagraph (c), and the appointment of the members referred to in subparagraphs (c) and (d) must be by royal order for a period of four years renewable. The remuneration and benefits of the members of the Public Prosecution Council must be determined by royal order.

Second

Article 4 of the Law of the Board of Grievances issued by Royal Decree D/78 dated 19 Ramadan 1428 [1 October 2007] is hereby amended to read as follows:

A council named the “Administrative Judiciary Council” is hereby established in the board and consists of:

1․ The President of the Board of Grievances—Chairman

2․ The President of the Supreme Administrative Court—Member

3․ The most senior deputy president of the board—Member

4․ Four judges who meet the requirements for an appeal judge—Members

5․ Those with expertise and competence—Two members

The members referred to in paragraphs 4 and 5 must be appointed by royal order for a period of four years renewable. The remuneration and benefits of the council members must be determined by royal order.

Third

His Royal Highness the Prime Minister, the ministers, and the heads of independent concerned authorities—each within their area of competence—shall implement this decree of Ours.

Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud

Issued on: 17 Sha’ban 1446
Corresponding to: 16 February 2025

Published in Umm Al-Qura 5072 issued on 21 February 2025.

Laws and Regulations

The Governance of the Review of Requests and Matters Referred to the Ministry of Finance

Post author By Decree
Post date 12 February 2025

Arabic Auto Translate

Issued by …

Published in Umm Al-Qura 5088 issued on 24 May 2025.

Ministerial Decision

Ministry of Commerce: Decision 235 Approving the Rules of the Ultimate Beneficial Owner

Post author By Decree
Post date 11 February 2025

Arabic

The Minister of Commerce,

based on the powers entrusted to him by law,

based on article 274 of the Companies Law issued by Royal Decree D/132 dated 1 Dhu Al-Hijja 1443 [30 June 2022],

and after perusal of Ministerial Decision 10708 dated 25 Safar 1439 [14 November 2017],

and in pursuance of public interest,

hereby decides

First

The Rules of the Ultimate Beneficial Owner are hereby approved in the form attached to this decision.

Second

Ministerial Decision 10708 dated 25 Safar 1439 [14 November 2017] is hereby repealed by the Rules of the Ultimate Beneficial Owner referred to in clause First of this decision.

Third

The Rules of the Ultimate Beneficial Owner attached to this decision must be published in the official gazette, and come into force from 5 Shawwal 1446 corresponding to 3 April 2025.

Minister of Commerce
Dr Majid bin Abdullah Al-Qasabi

Issued on: 13 Sha’ban 1446
Corresponding to: 12 February 2025

Published in Umm Al-Qura 5072 issued on 21 February 2025.

Tags Ministry of Commerce