Laws and Regulations
- 1/20If you ride a motorcycle without a helmet
Saudi law mandates all riders wear a certified helmet. Riding without one can lead to fines, injury risk, or license points.
When you ride between lanes or weave through traffic
Lane splitting is not legal in Saudi Arabia. It’s considered reckless and can result in traffic citations or more serious penalties.
If you carry a passenger without a proper seat
Motorcycles must be designed to safely carry passengers. Carrying someone without a proper seat is illegal and unsafe.
When you ignore traffic lights or signals
Running red lights or ignoring signs can lead to fines, point deductions, or even license suspension under Saudi traffic laws.
If you ride on sidewalks or pedestrian areas
Sidewalks are reserved for pedestrians. Using a motorcycle in these areas is illegal and can endanger public safety.
When you use a mobile phone while riding
Riders must stay fully focused. Using a phone can lead to fines and increases the chance of a crash significantly.
If you ride without proper license plates
All motorcycles must have visible, valid number plates. Missing or tampered plates result in legal action.
When you drive in the wrong direction
Driving against traffic can lead to serious crashes. It’s illegal and subject to heavy fines or impoundment.
If you operate a motorcycle under the influence of drugs or alcohol
Saudi law enforces zero tolerance for impaired driving. Penalties can include jail, fines, and permanent license revocation.
When you do not follow speed limits
Saudi roads are strictly speed-regulated. Exceeding limits results in fines between 150 and 2,000 SAR, depending on the excess speed, and increases the risk of fatal accidents.
If you block emergency vehicle access
Blocking or not yielding to ambulances or fire services is illegal and can lead to severe legal penalties.
When you fail to signal before turning or changing lanes
Riders must always use indicators. Failure to do so causes confusion and increases crash risk.
If you park your motorcycle in prohibited zones
No-parking areas are clearly marked. Violations can result in ticketing or the vehicle being towed.
When you do stunts or race on public roads
Performing wheelies or racing is illegal and considered reckless driving, punishable by fines and possible jail time.
If you modify your exhaust system to be excessively loud
Loud exhausts disturb public peace and are prohibited under Saudi traffic laws. Violators face fines between 300 and 500 SAR and may be required to restore the exhaust to legal standards.
When you do notyield to pedestrians at crossings
Riders must always yield at crosswalks. Not doing so may result in fines or even civil liability in case of injury.
If you do not have valid insurance while riding
All riders must carry insurance. Riding uninsured leads to fines and disqualification from claiming in accidents.
When you cover or obscure your license plate
Tampering with plates is a serious offense. It’s treated as intent to evade detection or enforcement.
If you refuse to stop at a police checkpoint
Failing to stop when directed by authorities can escalate into legal action, including arrest or fines.
When you ride without headlights at night
Proper lighting is required at night for safety. Not using it is illegal and may cause collisions or ticketing.