50% drop in road fatalities in Saudi Arabia – but there's more work to do
The Kingdom will pursue further improvements to its roads and introduce changes to regulations to ensure the safety and satisfaction of all drivers…
Driving in Saudi Arabia – particularly in Riyadh – is not for the faint-hearted. If you thought roller coasters were exhilarating, wait until you experience the daily traffic mayhem here.
Despite the wild ride, a newly released analysis of the 2025 Saudi Driving Report, which is publicly available through MedGulf’s website, shows that Saudi Arabia has seen a sharp drop in road fatalities, with about 50 per cent reduction in traffic-related deaths.
Surprised? So are we. But it’s all thanks to the Kingdom’s new and innovative road rules – from an extension of traffic fines discounts to guidelines on driverless cars.
A significant progress
Over the years, Saudi Arabia has invested heavily in developing its road infrastructure, placing the Kingdom in the fourth place on the Quality of Roads Index for G20 countries. Its road networks, spanning over 73,000 kilometres, are considered the most interconnected globally.
In 2016, Saudi Gazette reported that there were an estimated 28.8 road traffic deaths per 100,000 people compared to 13 cases in 2023, as a result of its continued initiatives.
For 2025, Saudi Arabia will pursue additional improvements to its roads while introducing regulatory changes to ensure the safety and satisfaction of all drivers. These changes encompass everything from road conditions and infrastructure to modern transportation and responsible driving practices.
Enhanced urban mobility in Riyadh
Alongside road improvements and regulatory changes, enhancing urban mobility and reducing congestion are also priorities for Saudi Arabia. The Riyadh Metro plays a crucial role in this regard. Spanning a 176-kilometre network with six lines, 85 stations, and seven depots, the metro helps alleviate traffic congestion in the capital.
Buckle up
While the 50 per cent drop in road fatalities signifies a positive step forward, we must continue to intensify efforts to enhance road safety, especially for vulnerable road users and in high-risk areas such as rural roads.
Driving here is a roller coaster ride like no other. We’d suggest that you embrace the chaos, but remember to always follow the rules and traffic laws.
And if you do have a collision with anything, please call Najm using the app on your phone. Safe travels.
Images: MedGulf / Photo by Jay Openiano on Unsplash / What’s Saudi Arabia Archives