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- Saudi Arabia Updates Sidewalk Regulations to Improve City Design and Business Access
Posted by : Aahil Shaik
Monday, October 20, 2025
Saudi Arabia Updates Sidewalk Regulations to Improve City Design and Business Access
The Ministry of Municipalities and Housing has approved new updated rules for using public sidewalks for commercial purposes.
These rules aim to organize how businesses such as shops, restaurants, and cafes use the space in front of their locations. The idea is to keep traffic moving, keep pedestrians safe, and make cities more interesting and appealing. See Also: Big changes to Saudi visa rules
The new rules aim to safeguard both the rights of road users and business interests. They guarantee the safety and vibrancy of the city, allowing businesses to use sidewalks without causing harm to pedestrians.
The laws also make it clear that businesses can utilize sidewalks within certain restrictions, but they must leave them open for everyone to stroll on.
This rule reveals that the ministry wants to improve public places while keeping the city's character and giving Saudi cities a more modern look. The requirements define specific standards for how sidewalks can be used—including the layout of outdoor seating and the design of umbrellas, barriers, and plants that make the area look more appealing.
The main principles behind these rules include
➤ Ensuring safe and easy movement for pedestrians,
➤ Reducing visual clutter and disorganization, and
➤ Keeping the area clean, comfortable, and well-organized is beneficial for both tourists and company owners.
The ministry also said that permits would be provided electronically through the "Balady" platform. This makes the process easier and gives investors clear instructions on how to apply and what they need to do. Recommend: New food truck guidelines in Saudi Arabia
The government is constantly working to make cities better, more alive, and more organized for business. These new guidelines for using sidewalks are part of that work. They want to make cities more beautiful, organized, and welcoming to investors. This would help Saudi cities become more appealing places to live and invest in.
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Saudi Arabia Updates Sidewalk Regulations to Improve City Design and Business Access |