Saudi Arabia's cabinet has approved a comprehensive overland transport system reform package aimed at further improving transport efficiency and sustainability by modernizing the road network and integrating advanced technologies. The reform package was approved at a cabinet meeting in Riyadh chaired by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the Saudi Press Agency reported. The programme aims to simplify regulations and promote environmental protection in the transport sector, keeping pace with the global trend towards sustainable and connected transport infrastructure.

Saudi Arabia already ranks among the top countries in the world in terms of connectivity, with a road network of more than 73,000 kilometers. The reform will further strengthen the kingdom's ambitions in the field of logistics and mobility innovation. Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser, Minister of Transport and Logistics Services and Chairman of the TGA Board, said: "The decision supports the regulation and development of land transport in various sectors, ensuring that it is in line with the kingdom's rapid economic expansion."

The new system will classify key road transport activities such as passenger and cargo transport, as well as car rental, and require service providers to comply with operational and technical conditions set by the regulator. "This includes adopting modern technologies in transport and sustainable mobility, regulating transport facilities, ensuring fair competition, and strengthening the role of the private sector as a key partner in development," Al-Jasser noted.

In addition, the new framework introduces stricter rules to regulate the operation of foreign freight trucks, aiming to regulate entry and enforce compliance with local transport laws. At the same time, passenger transport operators will be prohibited from directly soliciting customers, such as calling passengers or following them to provide services, in order to maintain market order.

Al-Jasser stressed that "the system will create investment opportunities, ensure the healthy and orderly development of the industry and further consolidate the Kingdom's global position in integrated transport services." This is in line with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 and will help build a more sustainable and prosperous future." Editor/Xu Shengpeng