The six-month grace period for the 50% reduction in traffic fines announced by the Ministry of Interior will officially end on Friday, October 18, 2024. This initiative, aligned with directives from King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman, offered relief by reducing accumulated fines for violations committed before April 18, 2024. Citizens, expatriates, and visitors can still benefit by settling their fines before the deadline.
Details of the 50% Fine Reduction
- Effective Dates: From April 18 to October 18, 2024.
- Coverage: The reduction applies to all violations committed before April 18, 2024.
- Payment Options: Fines can be paid in one lump sum or separately for each violation.
- Goal: This initiative aims to ease the financial burden on citizens, expatriates, visitors, and GCC nationals.
Violations committed after April 18, 2024, will not qualify for the 50% reduction but are eligible for a 25% discount under Article 75 of the Saudi Traffic Law if paid within the stipulated period.
Article 75 of the Traffic Law
- 25% Reduction: For violations committed from April 18 onwards.
- Penalties: Imprisonment and other enforcement actions apply if the fines are not paid after the objection period and payment deadline.
Payment Process through SADAD and Efaa
Fines must be paid using the SADAD payment system or the Efaa platform. The General Directorate of Traffic warned citizens against interacting with suspicious websites or phone calls offering unofficial payment services.
Disqualifying Violations
According to the royal decree, the following serious violations committed during the reduction period disqualify offenders from the 50% discount:
- Drifting or reckless driving.
- Driving under the influence of drugs or banned substances.
- Exceeding the speed limit by more than:
- 50 km/h on roads with a limit of 120 km/h.
- 30 km/h on roads with a limit of 140 km/h.
Conclusion
The 50% traffic fine reduction initiative reflects Saudi Arabia's effort to provide financial relief to residents and visitors. However, the October 18 deadline is fast approaching. Those with outstanding fines are encouraged to pay before the grace period ends to avoid missing out on the discount.
