Road traffic injuries and road safety efforts in Saudi Arabia.

BACKGROUND

Road traffic injuries and deaths remain a major public health concern in Saudi Arabia.

AIM: To review the burden and risk factors for road traffic injuries in Saudi Arabia and describe recent government road safety efforts.

METHODS

We reviewed official government documents and published literature on national trends, risk factors, emergency response and injury patterns of road traffic injuries and road safety efforts by the Government of Saudi Arabia.

RESULTS

Between 2013 and 2023, serious road traffic accidents decreased by 46% in Saudi Arabia, fatalities by 44% and injuries by 40% as a result of stricter traffic monitoring and public awareness campaigns. In spite of this progress, the burden remains concentrated among specific population groups and regions. The key challenges include non-compliance to safety measures and non-completion of infrastructure upgrades.

CONCLUSION

Saudi Arabia has achieved measurable reductions in road traffic accidents, injuries and fatalities. However, achieving the Vision 2030 road safety target will require sustained enforcement, safer infrastructure, stronger road safety education, and wider use of data-driven technologies.