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Online delivery is getting regulated: The Transport General Authority (TGA) is introducing new rules aimed at regulating online delivery across the Kingdom, according to a TGA statement out yesterday. The rules show a gradual phaseout of self-employment for non-Saudis in online delivery services in the coming period.
Ironing out details on the phaseout: The TGA will begin implementing the changes gradually by requiring non-Saudi drivers to work only through light transport firms within the next 14 months. Only nationals will be allowed to operate as self-employed couriers, according to the statement.
And a uniform for non-Saudis: The rules will see the TGA implementing a uniform policy for non-Saudis working in delivery services.
Facial recognition cometh: Companies working in the sector will be obliged to use a facial recognition system that is directly linked to the TGA’s system.
You can now display ads on light transport vehicles, provided that you get an approval from the TGA and the Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing Ministry, according to the statement.
The rationale: The move aims to govern the online delivery sector and create job openings for nationals, the TGA said.
Changes are coming in soon: The new rules will be implemented in early April, the statement said.
REMEMBER- The online delivery sector has been booming, with the online food ordering and delivery market valued at USD 2.3 bn, according to a report by TechSci in December. The market is project to grow at a compound annual growth rate of c. 22% through 2028.
