New law in Saudi Arabia: SR100,000 fine for damaging, blocking roads or flood drainage systems

Dubai: A maximum fine of SR100,000 will be imposed on individuals who intentionally damage, block or obstruct public roads or flood drainage systems, according to new regulations introduced under the Law of the Protection of Public Facilities.

These regulations, aimed at protecting public infrastructure and ensuring uninterrupted services, establish strict penalties for violations.

The fines are structured to cover up to 75 per cent of the cost of repairs, with the total penalty capped at SR100,000.

If a group of individuals is responsible for the violation, they will collectively bear the penalty. Additionally, violators must compensate for all damages, including repair costs, and failure to do so will result in the recovery of expenses through legal channels under the State Revenue Law.

The regulations also target unapproved construction or damage to roads and drainage systems, with fines up to 10 per cent of the repair costs, capped at SR100,000. If the proper permits were obtained, the fine is reduced to 5 per cent.

For those illegally encroaching on public roads or drainage channels, creating cuts or holes for personal benefit, fines will be levied based on the cost of restoring the area, up to SR50,000.

Further penalties are set for individuals disrupting public roads with hazardous materials, such as petroleum products or dirt, with fines of up to SR3,000.

The law also penalises tampering with water and electricity meters, public telephone devices, and railways, with fines up to SR3,000 for those found guilty of damaging or disrupting these services. A fine of SR2,000 will be imposed on anyone facilitating illegal access to public facilities.

Repeat offenders will face doubled fines, up to twice the maximum penalty, with decisions on compensation or fines made by the head of the competent authority.