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Autonomous vehicles (AVs) are no longer a distant dream—they are rapidly becoming a reality. To ensure the smooth and safe integration of autonomous vehicles into existing transportation networks, Saudi Arabia has established a comprehensive framework known as SHC 801 – Autonomous Vehicles Requirements. Developed under the Saudi Highway Code (SHC), this document outlines the physical, digital, operational, and legal prerequisites for AVs, marking a significant step toward a smarter, safer future.

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In this blog, we will explore the details of SHC 801, its objectives, scope, and the specific requirements it sets for autonomous vehicle deployment in Saudi Arabia.

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What is SHC 801 – Autonomous Vehicles Requirements?

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SHC 801 is a volume of the Saudi Highway Code specifically created to define the requirements for the integration of Connected Automated Vehicles (CAVs) within Saudi Arabia. It addresses physical infrastructure, digital systems, road operations, cybersecurity, and pilot project guidelines. The document serves as a comprehensive guide for government authorities, vehicle manufacturers, road operators, and technology providers involved in the autonomous driving ecosystem.

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Scope and Purpose of SHC 801

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The scope of SHC 801 is vast and forward-looking. It:

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• Provides guidelines for new infrastructure initiatives.

• Bridges knowledge gaps regarding autonomous technology.

• Serves as a reference for pilot demonstrations.

• Establishes a legal and technical framework suited for the dynamic and rapidly evolving AV sector.

• Aligns Saudi Arabia's regulations with global best practices while considering the country’s specific environmental and infrastructural needs.

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Physical Infrastructure Requirements for Autonomous Vehicles

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One of the critical aspects of SHC 801 is upgrading the physical infrastructure to support CAVs.

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1. Vehicle On-Board Equipment

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CAVs must be equipped with:

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• Cameras for 360° environmental perception.

• Radar systems to detect obstacles and measure distances.

• Lidar for generating detailed 3D maps.

• Ultrasonic sensors for close-range object detection.

• GNSS receivers (GPS, GALILEO, BAIDU) for precise vehicle positioning.

• On-Board Units (OBUs) for seamless communication with road infrastructure.

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2. Roadside Units (RSUs)

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• RSUs must enable Vehicle-to-Infrastructure (V2I) and Infrastructure-to-Vehicle (I2V) communication.

• Positioned strategically for maximum coverage (typically within a 1km radius).

• Operate in the 5.9 GHz DSRC band for low-latency data exchange.

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3. Special Areas

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Special infrastructure such as:

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• AV-compatible parking lots

• Drop-off and pick-up zones

• Automated bus stations

• Electric charging stations

• Drone landing padsmust be designed to meet AV-specific needs.

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Digital Infrastructure for CAV Integration

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Digital readiness is equally crucial for the success of autonomous driving.

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1. Communication Systems

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Saudi Arabia promotes the use of:

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• Short-range communication (ITS-G5, DSRC)

• Long-range communication (4G/LTE, 5G)

• Hybrid models combining both.

• Multi-access edge computing (MEC) to enable real-time data processing closer to the source.

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2. Positioning and Mapping

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• Accurate localization through GNSS with Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) enhancement.

• Use of HD maps and point cloud technologies to enable precise vehicle navigation.

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3. Cybersecurity

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Saudi Arabia enforces stringent cybersecurity measures via:

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• Adoption of standards like ISO/SAE 21434.

• Compliance with the National Cybersecurity Authority (NCA) frameworks.

• Implementation of secure data exchange protocols and public key infrastructure (PKI).

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4. Big Data Management

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Handling massive data streams generated by AVs is a focus area. Saudi Arabia emphasizes:

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• Cloud computing integration.

• Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) for data analytics.

• Adoption of open and standardized protocols for interoperability.

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Operational Guidelines for Road Management

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1. Traffic Management Centers (TMCs)

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TMCs are at the heart of operational control, responsible for:

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• Monitoring road conditions.

• Managing data flow between infrastructure and vehicles.

• Enforcing safety regulations and ensuring compliance with international standards such as ISO 26262 and ISO 21448.

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2. Safety Standards

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CAVs in Saudi Arabia must comply with:

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• Functional Safety (ISO 26262)

• Safety of the Intended Functionality (SOTIF) (ISO 21448)

• Localized safety protocols established by Saudi authorities.

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3. Operational Infrastructure

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Support systems include:

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• Third-party services like smart routing apps.

• Integration of Internet of Things (IoT) sensors.

• Human-Machine Interfaces (HMI) for driver communication in semi-automated scenarios.

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Guidelines for Launching Pilot Projects in Saudi Arabia

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To foster innovation and real-world testing, SHC 801 outlines structured guidelines for pilot projects:

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• Pilot Categorization: Based on vehicle type, area (urban, rural), scale, and participants.

• Example Pilots: Truck platooning, automated shuttles, robotaxis, valet parking solutions.

• Concise Steps: Define use case → Ensure legal clearance → Deploy infrastructure → Conduct data collection → Analyze and refine.

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The clear roadmap encourages both public and private stakeholders to participate actively in developing autonomous mobility solutions tailored to Saudi Arabia’s unique environment.

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Alignment with Global Standards

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Saudi Arabia’s SHC 801 aligns itself with globally recognized standards, including:

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• ETSI ITS standards

• ISO standards for vehicle communication and safety

• IEEE 802.11p wireless communications

• UNECE regulations on cybersecurity and data privacy

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This ensures that Saudi Arabia’s AV ecosystem is globally interoperable, future-proof, and ready for international collaborations.

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Conclusion

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Saudi Arabia’s introduction of SHC 801 – Autonomous Vehicles Requirements demonstrates a bold vision for the future of transportation. By establishing a detailed regulatory framework encompassing physical, digital, operational, and cybersecurity needs, the Kingdom is paving the way for a seamless integration of autonomous vehicles.

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With the rapid development of smart cities like NEOM and major initiatives under Vision 2030, SHC 801 stands as a cornerstone for Saudi Arabia’s ambition to become a global leader in intelligent, sustainable transportation.

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FAQs

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Q1. What are the core requirements defined under SHC 801 for autonomous vehicles? 

The SHC 801 guidelines outline key provisions for safe autonomous vehicle operation, including data exchange protocols, lane discipline, detection accuracy, and system fail-safe mechanisms for integration into national road systems.

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Q2. How does SHC 801 address safety protocols for autonomous vehicles? 

It sets autonomous vehicle safety standards focusing on vehicle-to-infrastructure communication, redundancy in navigation systems, and response mechanisms to minimize risks during unpredictable scenarios.

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Q3. Is SHC 801 applicable to international autonomous vehicle projects? 

While region-specific, SHC 801 aligns well with international standards for autonomous vehicles and can serve as a baseline reference for countries seeking to harmonize AV safety and design protocols.

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