No, open burning is prohibited nationwide under Saudi Environmental Law (Royal Decree M/165, 2022) unless explicitly licensed by the General Authority of Meteorology and Environmental Protection (GAMEP). Violations trigger fines up to SAR 5 million and criminal liability under the 2026 enforcement amendments.
Key Regulations for Open Burning in Saudi Arabia
- Licensing Mandate: GAMEP requires prior written approval for agricultural residue burning, construction debris incineration, or landfill fires, with site-specific emission controls enforced under the 2023 Air Quality Standards.
- Prohibited Materials: Burning plastic, rubber, treated wood, or hazardous waste is illegal under the 2024 Waste Management Regulations, with penalties escalating for non-compliance.
- Regional Restrictions: Municipalities in Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam impose additional seasonal bans (e.g., March–May for dust control) under local bylaws aligned with GAMEP’s 2025 compliance directives.