Saudi Arabia Updates Public Conduct Fines: What You Need to Know

Saudi authorities have outlined detailed regulations on public behavior, introducing specific fines for a range of violations to ensure safety, decency, and public order.

The new rules cover acts from indecent behavior to minor public infractions, with penalties set per individual or incident

Key highlights include:

• Indecent behavior of a sexual nature: Fines range from 3,000 to 6,000 SAR per person.

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• Noise violations: Playing music at high volumes in residential areas without approval can incur fines of 500–1,000 SAR, while playing music during prayer times carries a fine of 1,000–2,000 SAR.

• Public cleanliness and pet ownership: Non-removal of pet waste and littering in non-designated areas or spitting can lead to fines of 100–1,000 SAR, depending on the violation.

• Respect for public spaces and facilities: Occupying seats reserved for the elderly or disabled, bypassing barriers, or skipping lines without permission can result in fines ranging from 50 to 1,000 SAR.

• Dress code violations: Wearing inappropriate clothing in public, including underwear, sleepwear, or clothing with obscene or discriminatory images or language, carries fines between 100 and 1,000 SAR.

• Media and property offenses: Unauthorized photography or videography of individuals, accidents, or incidents can incur fines of 1,000–2,000 SAR, with all material required to be deleted. Writing, drawing, or placing unauthorized commercial or offensive signage in public places also carries fines of 100–200 SAR.

• Safety hazards: Igniting fires in public areas, exposing people to harmful lighting, or performing acts that endanger or frighten others can lead to fines of 100–200 SAR.

Authorities emphasize that fines are imposed per violator and per violation. Violators may also bear the costs of rectifying their actions, while anyone harmed by a violation has the right to file a lawsuit. Those wishing to contest fines may submit grievances to the Public Decency Circuit at the Specialized Administrative Court (Board of Grievances).

These regulations aim to promote respect, safety, and public decency across Saudi Arabia, ensuring that all residents and visitors can enjoy shared spaces responsibly