Saudi Arabia has introduced significant amendments to its Traffic Law, making driving with an expired vehicle registration (istimara) a traffic violation.

The amendment involves the cancellation of Article 71 of Saudi Arabia Cabinet Decision No. 315/1428, which previously imposed a fine of SR100 for each year or part thereof for delayed renewal of driving licenses and vehicle registrations, with a maximum fine of SR300.

The fine was applicable after 60 days from the expiry date.

Additionally, a new paragraph has been added to the Traffic Violations Schedule, explicitly stating that driving with an expired vehicle registration is a violation.

In the same session, the Cabinet approved the Petroleum and Petrochemical Products Law and tasked King Abdullah University of Science and Technology with overseeing the Saudi Centre for Vaccines and Protein Treatments.

Minister of Media has highlighted the Cabinet’s review of recent government activities aimed at enhancing international cooperation and addressing global challenges.

The Cabinet has also addressed the situation in the occupied Palestinian territories, condemning Israeli actions and advocating for a ceasefire in Gaza.

Domestically, the Cabinet has assessed progress in development programs focused on economic diversification and resource optimisation.

Several international agreements were approved, including MoUs with Uruguay in sports, North Macedonia in Islamic affairs, Singapore in justice, and Morocco in health.

Agreements were also made with Qatar in digital government, Eswatini in air services, and Peru in financial intelligence.

The Cabinet endorsed final accounts for various Saudi authorities and funds for previous fiscal years.

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