Riyadh: The Riyadh Infrastructure Projects Center has announced the commencement of the mandatory implementation of the Infrastructure Projects Code, effective Thursday.
According to Saudi Press Agency, the code serves as a comprehensive and unified reference for infrastructure projects, providing standardized regulatory and technical guidelines for government entities, utility service providers, contractors, consultants, and quality control laboratories. It enables stakeholders to access the necessary technical and regulatory requirements for the planning, coordination, execution, and oversight of infrastructure works related to telecommunications, energy, water, sanitation, roads, and other sectors. The code applies to public and private sector projects, including major developments across Riyadh Region, encompassing the capital city, governorates, and rural areas.
The code aims to enhance inter-agency coordination, unify standards, and improve the quality and safety of implementation. It addresses all stages of the project lifecycle-from planning and obtaining the necessary permits, to notifications of commencement, execution, traffic management plans, safety and environmental procedures, and final site closure. The code includes numerous regulations related to safety and barriers, licensing, execution quality, site cleanliness, signage and information boards, dust and waste control, and ensuring accessibility to homes and public facilities.
The Infrastructure Projects Code is designed to improve work quality and compliance levels, enhance on-site conditions, and ensure the safety of residents, pedestrians, and workers. It also seeks to facilitate project execution without disrupting daily life. The code mandates that contractors provide safe pedestrian pathways, coordinate traffic movement, secure project sites around the clock, install standardized identification signage, use warning lighting, clean the site daily, and regularly update permits.
Since the code’s initial rollout in a non-mandatory (advisory) phase, the Riyadh Infrastructure Projects Center has held over 25 workshops and orientation sessions. These sessions aimed to introduce the code’s framework, highlight its key standards, and ensure effective application, reinforcing collaboration toward achieving key objectives such as improving quality of life, enhancing the urban environment, and optimizing expenditure on infrastructure projects.
