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In a move to bolster road safety and environmental protection, Saudi Arabia has introduced new guidelines for roadside billboards. These regulations, part of the comprehensive ‘Saudi Road Code’, aim to create a safer and more sustainable advertising landscape along the kingdom’s highways.

Key Points of the New Billboard Rules

The Saudi Roads General Authority (RGA) has outlined four fundamental rules for billboard placement and design:

1. Safe Positioning: Billboards must be installed in locations that do not interfere with traffic flow or pose risks to road users.
2. Eco-Friendly Materials: High-quality, environmentally conscious materials are now mandatory for billboard construction.
3. Non-Distracting Design: Billboard designs must not divert drivers’ attention or obstruct their view of the road.
4. Appropriate Lighting: Illumination must be suitable, avoiding glare that could affect drivers, and utilise green technology to reduce environmental impact.

The Saudi Road Code: A Comprehensive Approach to Road Safety

These billboard regulations are part of a broader initiative known as the ‘Saudi Road Code’. This technical reference guide covers various aspects of road infrastructure, including:

• Planning
• Design
• Implementation
• Maintenance

The code’s primary objectives are to:

• Standardise road specifications across the kingdom
• Guide government institutions in enhancing road safety measures
• Reduce traffic accidents through improved infrastructure

Implementation Timeline

The Saudi Road Code is being rolled out in phases:

• Currently serving as a guideline until the end of 2024
• Mandatory for all government agencies starting in 2025
• Compulsory for private agencies by mid-2025

This phased approach allows for a smooth transition and gives all stakeholders time to adapt to the new standards.

Looking Ahead: Impact on Saudi Roads

By implementing these stringent billboard regulations and the broader Saudi Road Code, the kingdom is taking significant steps towards:

• Improving road safety for all users
• Promoting environmental sustainability in infrastructure
• Creating a more unified and efficient road network

As Saudi Arabia continues to develop its infrastructure, these new regulations demonstrate a commitment to balancing progress with safety and environmental responsibility. For businesses and advertisers, adapting to these new rules will be crucial in maintaining a presence along Saudi Arabia’s roadways while contributing to a safer driving environment for all.