Saudi drivers face fines up to SR 2,000 for shoulder driving and phone use

Dubai: The General Directorate of Traffic in Saudi Arabia has issued a warning against driving on road shoulders, sidewalks, or in prohibited lanes, emphasising that such violations disrupt traffic flow, confuse other drivers and pose serious risks to road safety.

In a statement, the authority stressed that this behaviour violates traffic regulations and is punishable by fines ranging from SR1,000 to 2,000, as outlined in the official schedule of violations.

Drivers were reminded to stay within designated lanes and avoid using shoulders or sidewalks, except in emergency situations, to ensure public safety and maintain smooth traffic movement.

The Directorate also highlighted that using a mobile phone while driving remains one of the primary causes of road accidents.

The distraction leads to loss of focus, increasing the risk of running red lights, veering off lanes, losing control, or failing to notice pedestrians, other vehicles, or sudden road hazards.

Motorists were urged to avoid using mobile phones while driving, with penalties ranging from SR500 to 900, depending on the circumstances and the assessment by traffic officers.

“Such practices not only violate the law but endanger lives — including your own,” the authority said.