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01 April 2025

Saudi Arabia Imposes Fines On Shipping Companies For Delivery Delays

New regulations aim to enhance shipping services and protect consumer rights in the growing e-commerce sector.

The General Authority for Transport in Saudi Arabia has announced a significant new regulation aimed at improving the quality of shipping and delivery services across the Kingdom. As part of a comprehensive effort to enhance customer satisfaction and protect the rights of beneficiaries, the authority will impose a financial fine of no less than 5,000 Saudi Riyals on shipping companies that fail to deliver shipments to the agreed-upon locations or that are late in their deliveries.

This initiative comes in response to the rapid growth of the shipping and logistics sector, which has expanded dramatically due to the rise of e-commerce. With the increasing demand for reliable delivery services, the General Authority for Transport recognizes the need to address ongoing challenges, such as delays in delivery and non-compliance with specified delivery locations.

Saleh Al-Zowayed, the official spokesperson for the General Authority for Transport, explained that the new executive regulations require shipping companies to utilize the national address system in all delivery operations. This requirement aims to enhance the accuracy of deliveries and improve overall service quality. Al-Zowayed stated, "In the event of a driver or company failing to comply with this requirement and instead asking customers for their locations, a fine of up to 5,000 Saudi Riyals will be enforced." This measure is designed to minimize errors and delays that arise from not using the national address, ultimately improving the efficiency of delivery operations.

To ensure that beneficiaries can easily report any violations by shipping companies, the General Authority for Transport has established multiple channels for communication. Beneficiaries can contact a unified number, 19929, to submit complaints or inquiries about shipping services. Additionally, they can send feedback through a dedicated email, use WhatsApp by messaging 0507363133, or submit complaints via the authority's official website using available electronic forms. These efforts are intended to enhance transparency and accountability within the sector.

The implementation of this regulation is particularly timely, as the shipping and delivery sector has seen significant growth. The rise in e-commerce has led to an increased demand for reliable delivery services, making it essential for companies to adhere to agreed-upon standards and timelines. The General Authority for Transport's new measures are expected to foster competition among shipping companies, encouraging them to improve their services and meet customer expectations.

Furthermore, the authority's decision is seen as a strategic move to bolster the transport sector in the Kingdom. By enforcing these regulations, the General Authority for Transport aims to enhance the level of reliability and transparency in shipping and delivery services. This initiative not only aims to protect the rights of consumers but also reflects the Kingdom's commitment to digital transformation and economic development.

In light of these developments, the shipping sector is poised for a transformation that prioritizes customer satisfaction and operational efficiency. Companies that fail to comply with the new regulations will face financial repercussions, which may serve as a catalyst for change in the industry.

As the e-commerce landscape continues to evolve, the General Authority for Transport remains dedicated to ensuring that the shipping and delivery sector keeps pace with the demands of consumers. The newly imposed fines are a clear message to shipping companies that adherence to standards is not optional, but rather a necessity for success in today's competitive market.

In summary, the General Authority for Transport's new regulations signify a pivotal moment for the shipping and delivery sector in Saudi Arabia. With the enforcement of financial penalties for non-compliance, the authority is taking a firm stance on improving service quality and protecting consumer rights. As the sector adapts to these changes, it will be essential for companies to embrace the national address system and prioritize timely deliveries to maintain customer trust and satisfaction.

As the authority continues to monitor the effectiveness of these regulations, it is expected that feedback from consumers and industry stakeholders will play a crucial role in shaping future policies aimed at enhancing the logistics sector in Saudi Arabia.