Saudi Arabia’s Roads General Authority (RGA) has introduced a sweeping reform to its transport sector with the official launch of the Saudi Road Code—a unified system that aims to enhance road safety, streamline traffic management, and lay the groundwork for a smarter, more connected road infrastructure.
Unveiled during a high-level event in Riyadh, the Code consolidates 25 regulatory documents and technical guidelines into one comprehensive framework. The initiative is part of Saudi Arabia’s ongoing commitment to its Vision 2030 transformation agenda and is designed to modernise how roads are designed, built, operated, and maintained.
An Urgency of unified Road Code
Like many fast-growing economies, Saudi Arabia has faced increasing pressure on its road infrastructure. Rapid urbanisation, population growth, and a surge in freight transport have pushed the limits of existing road systems. The lack of a unified standard created inconsistencies in road quality, signage, and traffic management—factors that contributed to congestion and accidents.
The need for consistent technical standards became even more pressing with the rise of smart mobility and autonomous transport technologies. By consolidating all regulations under one umbrella, the new Road Code addresses these critical gaps.
What the Saudi Road Code covers
The Saudi Road Code defines a full road classification system, covering expressways, urban streets, and rural routes. It includes:
- Clear criteria for road hierarchies and functions
- Design and engineering standards for construction and upgrades
- Environmental and sustainability considerations
- Future-readiness for smart and autonomous vehicle technologies
The Code also outlines safety protocols and performance benchmarks that must be met by all new road projects moving forward. This includes improved signage, better lighting, optimised lane width, and stricter quality control during construction and maintenance phases.
How AI and innovation are shaping Saudi’s road upgrade
To complement the new Code, the Roads General Authority has already begun deploying advanced technologies across key regions. A new AI-powered fleet now monitors roads in real time to spot maintenance needs and prevent traffic bottlenecks.
This digital shift supports the broader vision of building smarter cities and transport networks that can adapt to population growth and economic expansion. These AI-powered inspection vehicles will enhance predictive maintenance and reduce long-term repair costs, delivering better value to both the government and road users.
Digital tools and new regulations mark a data-driven shift in the region’s transport infrastructure.
the UAE and the wider GCC
Saudi Arabia’s transport reform is more than a domestic milestone—it sets a precedent for the Gulf region. The new Code offers UAE transport professionals a glimpse into future cross-border standards and regional collaboration.
With increasing trade and tourism flows between the UAE and Saudi Arabia, a more standardised road network could mean smoother, safer, and more predictable travel experiences. Additionally, the rise of unified technical specifications could inspire similar frameworks across other GCC countries, including the UAE, fostering greater connectivity and consistency in road infrastructure.
Dubai and Abu Dhabi, both champions of smart city initiatives, may also look to aspects of the Saudi model—such as its AI-powered inspection fleet—for potential application in the Emirates.
A step toward Vision 2030
The Saudi Road Code supports the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goal of reducing traffic fatalities to fewer than five per 100,000 people, while also improving road quality and enhancing the overall travel experience.
By 2030, Saudi Arabia aims for 90% of its highways to meet a minimum 3-star safety rating, aligning with international standards and improving trust in its transport system. The new Road Code is a key tool in realising this vision, blending modern engineering, global best practices, and a proactive approach to safety.
Saudi Arabia’s unified Road Code represents a transformative shift in how the Kingdom approaches road design, safety, and long-term planning. For the UAE, it’s a chance to learn from a neighbor leading bold infrastructure reforms.
As GCC countries continue to align their long-term goals, such initiatives may serve as blueprints for smarter, safer, and more connected mobility across the region.
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