Update of the Saudi Building Code System 2024

The National Committee for the Saudi Building Code announced an update to the Saudi Building Code System 2024, replacing the current version. This update is based on Article 5 of the Saudi Building Code System, which mandates updating the code every five years to keep pace with developments in the construction sector.

The Committee explained that the Building Code sets the minimum mandatory technical requirements for buildings to ensure the stability and durability of structures, the safety of lives and property, the conservation of natural resources such as energy and water, and the improvement of quality of life and public health by providing the necessary safety and health requirements. The update to the Building Code is part of the National Committee's efforts to improve engineering practices and enhance the competitiveness and leadership of the construction sector by aligning with international standards to keep pace with the Kingdom's growing urban development both regionally and globally.

The Committee noted that the 2024 Building Code update was based on several key sources, including updates to international references and specifications, and the adoption of the latest global standards to keep pace with developments in design and construction. The National Committee for the Saudi Building Code also evaluated previous corrections and addressed challenges faced by entities applying the code to ensure ease of application. The Committee took into account the feedback from government entities to enhance coordination in code application, and involved the private sector and construction industry professionals in collaboration with the Saudi Council of Engineers to ensure their engineering requirements are met according to best practices and to achieve flexibility in implementation.

The 2024 edition includes the addition of three new structural codes to the Building Code System: the Saudi Seismic Design Code for Steel, the Saudi Code for Repair, Rehabilitation, and Treatment of Existing Concrete Structures, and the Saudi Code for Reinforced Concrete using Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer Bars.

The National Committee for the Saudi Building Code called on all relevant entities, including engineers, real estate developers, contractors, consultants, and construction industry professionals, to review the updated version on the Committee's website and familiarize themselves with its details to ensure compliance. The Committee emphasized its commitment to providing guidance and training programs to facilitate the application process and achieve the desired goals in collaboration with relevant entities.

The Committee confirmed that the Saudi Building Code System 2024 will be mandatory starting from June 30, 2025, providing various entities with a transitional period of 180 days beginning in January 2025, during which the 2018 Saudi Building Code will continue to apply to all existing and new projects until the updated 2024 Building Code System is implemented.