Authorities Crack Down on Illegal Airport Transport in Saudi Arabia, 635 Cases Registered. In a significant move to enhance the safety and reliability of airport transport services, Saudi authorities have intensified their efforts to combat illegal passenger transportation at the kingdom’s airports. During the month of July, the Transport General Authority (TGA) recorded 635 cases of unauthorized transport operations across various airports in Saudi Arabia.
Extensive Inspection Campaigns
These violations were uncovered through a series of large-scale inspection campaigns conducted by the TGA in collaboration with the Interior Ministry and other relevant government agencies. The coordinated effort aims to identify and penalize unlicensed transporters operating in the region, thereby safeguarding passengers and ensuring compliance with established regulations.
Consequences of Violations
According to the TGA, engaging in the unlicensed transport of passengers at Saudi airports is a serious offence that violates the authority’s regulations. Offenders face stringent penalties, including a fine of SR5,000 (Saudi Riyals), the impoundment of the vehicle involved in the illegal activity, and the additional cost of impoundment.
Ongoing Efforts to Curb Unlicensed Practices
The TGA has reaffirmed its commitment to continuing these inspection campaigns in order to deter unlicensed practices and elevate the quality of services offered to passengers. By cracking down on illegal transporters, the authority aims to improve the overall travel experience for passengers, encouraging them to choose licensed transport services that guarantee safety and reliability.
Awareness Campaign – “Don’t Ride with the Non-Licensed”
As part of its efforts to promote compliance with transport regulations, the TGA has launched the “Don’t Ride with the Non-Licensed” campaign. This initiative seeks to raise public awareness about the importance of using licensed transport services when traveling to and from Saudi Arabia’s airports. The campaign emphasizes the safety benefits of choosing authorized transporters and highlights the risks associated with using unlicensed operators.
Collaboration with Other Government Agencies
The campaign is supported by several other Saudi government entities, including the Public Prosecution, the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), and MATARAT Holding Company. These organizations are working together to ensure that the public is informed about the regulations and the importance of compliance.
Encouraging Compliance and Offering Support
To further encourage compliance, the TGA has urged unlicensed transporters to join authorized companies and become part of the legal transport network. In March, the authority introduced various incentives and support programs for compliant transporters, designed to help them provide secure and reliable transportation services. These initiatives aim to make the legal route more attractive and accessible to transport operators, thus reducing the prevalence of illegal activities.
Conclusion
The crackdown on illegal airport transport in Saudi Arabia reflects the kingdom’s commitment to maintaining high standards of safety and service for its residents and visitors. Through continued inspection campaigns, public awareness initiatives, and support for compliant transporters, the TGA is working to create a secure and reliable transportation environment at Saudi airports. Passengers are encouraged to cooperate by choosing licensed transport services, thereby contributing to a safer and more efficient travel experience.
