During the first quarter of 2026, the infrastructure sector in the Riyadh region underwent a qualitative transformation in its regulatory and operational framework, driven by a package of qualitative policies and initiatives launched by the Infrastructure Projects Center, as part of a strategic approach aimed at improving implementation efficiency, strengthening governance, and enhancing the quality of life in the region.

Among the most notable of these efforts was the adoption of a requirement for the completion of infrastructure services as a prerequisite for approving new residential plans, in addition to launching the “Asul” program and implementing nine regulatory initiatives that contribute to the sector’s development and enhance its operational efficiency.

New regulations for licenses and permits have also been implemented, in parallel with the automation of compensation for traffic accidents related to projects, thereby enhancing the efficiency of procedures and improving the quality of outcomes.
In a proactive step aimed at enhancing the quality of implementation, the Center approved mandatory pre-qualification for contractors starting in 2027, It also launched a pilot program for service corridors at the Khuzam destination, as one of the modern solutions for infrastructure management.

In terms of institutional integration, the Center held the second meeting of the Infrastructure Projects Coordination Council and participated in the Third International Conference on Sustainability, It also issued an update to the Infrastructure Code to align with global best practices and launched the “Mumtasil” initiative to strengthen compliance with regulations and standards.

First-quarter performance indicators highlighted the growing activity in the sector, with the number of infrastructure project permits reaching 50,875, with projects distributed as follows: 67% for the water sector, 24% for the energy sector, 3% for the telecommunications sector, and 6% for other sectors.
The number of permits and projects under the comprehensive plan also exceeded 4,000, while the total length of roads under infrastructure construction reached 2,404 kilometers—an indicator reflecting the accelerating pace of project implementation across the region.

As part of efforts to strengthen compliance with regulations and standards, the Center conducted 101,738 inspection rounds, resulting in the detection of 4,113 violations and the handling of 73,617 reports.
The system recorded high levels of compliance—97% for regulations and standards, and 98% on the visual distortion index, in addition to conducting more than 30 workshops aimed at raising awareness and strengthening commitment among relevant stakeholders.
This rapid progress reflects the Infrastructure Projects Center’s commitment to building a more efficient and sustainable system that contributes to improving quality of life and supports the achievement of urban development goals in the city of Riyadh.