SHC 602 – Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices in Saudi Arabia: Standardizing Road Signs and Traffic Control for Safer Highways

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Effective traffic management is the backbone of any modern road network. In Saudi Arabia, the Saudi Highway Code (SHC) 602 – Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) plays a critical role in organizing, standardizing, and regulating traffic signs, road markings, and control signals across the Kingdom. This comprehensive manual ensures that all road users — from drivers to pedestrians — can interpret traffic control devices uniformly, enhancing safety and efficiency on roads.

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What is SHC 602?

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SHC 602 is Saudi Arabia’s version of the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), tailored to meet the unique infrastructural and traffic conditions of the country. It provides a standardized system for the design, placement, and use of traffic control devices on all public roads.

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This manual serves as an authoritative guideline for:

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• Road planners and engineers

• Municipalities and highway authorities

• Contractors and developers

• Law enforcement agencies

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Objective of SHC 602

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The primary goal of SHC 602 is to ensure uniformity in traffic signs and devices to minimize confusion and reduce accidents. It facilitates consistent message delivery, irrespective of the region within the Kingdom.

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The key objectives include:

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• Enhancing road safety and traffic flow

• Providing consistent visual communication

• Supporting urban planning and infrastructure projects

• Meeting international best practices and aligning with Gulf standards

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Core Components of SHC 602

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1. Regulatory Signs

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These signs convey traffic laws and regulations. Violating them can result in penalties or accidents. Common types include:

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• Stop Signs (R1-Series)

• Yield Signs (R2-Series)

• Speed Limit Signs (R3 & R4 Series)

• No Entry and Mandatory Movement Signs (R7 to R8 Series)

• Parking and Weight Restrictions (R20 to R27 Series)

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2. Warning Signs

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Designed to alert drivers of potential hazards ahead, these signs include:

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• Dangerous Curve Ahead (W1-Series)

• Steep Gradient (W5-Series)

• Narrow Bridge (W7-Series)

• Pedestrian or Animal Crossings (W46 to W48)

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3. Informative and Guide Signs

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These signs guide road users by offering directional and facility-based information:

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• Directional Arrows (I5-Series)

• Route Markers

• Tourist and Cultural Sites (G30-Series)

• Emergency Facilities (G11-Series)

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4. Pavement Markings

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Pavement and curb markings help regulate and guide traffic flow:

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• Center and Lane Lines (L1 & L2 Series)

• No-Passing Zones (L3-Series)

• Pedestrian Crosswalks (L12-Series)

• Chevron Markings (L7-Series)

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5. Traffic Signals

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This includes:

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• Pretimed and actuated signals

• Pedestrian hybrid beacons

• Adaptive control systems

• Signal placement and configuration standards

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6. Control in Special Zones

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SHC 602 provides tailored guidelines for:

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• School zones
• Work zones
• Rest areas
• Toll plazas
• Bicycle and pedestrian facilities

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Why Standardization is Important in Saudi Arabia

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✅ Nationwide Uniformity

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Ensures all drivers — local and foreign — can interpret signs consistently across the Kingdom.

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✅ Improved Road Safety

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Reduces road accidents due to misinterpretation of signage or conflicting messages.

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✅ Efficient Infrastructure Development

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Facilitates streamlined planning, construction, and maintenance across urban and rural road networks.

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✅ Compliance with International Standards

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Aligns Saudi road infrastructure with global safety standards, crucial for events like Hajj and growing tourism.

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Application of SHC 602 in Urban and Highway Projects

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From major freeways in Riyadh and Jeddah to rural roadways and neighborhood streets, SHC 602 is applied across various road classifications:

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• Freeways and Expressways: Overhead signage, interchanges, speed regulations.

• Urban Streets: School zones, pedestrian pathways, dynamic signage.

• Rural Roads: Low-volume highway control, agricultural route signage.

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Benefits to Road Users and Engineers

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For Road Users:

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• Predictable and understandable signage

• Safer navigation in new or unfamiliar areas

• Better compliance with traffic laws

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For Engineers and Planners:

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• Streamlined road design and layout

• Standardized sign selection and placement

• Easier maintenance and upgrades

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Final Thoughts

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The SHC 602 – Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices is more than a technical document; it is a critical framework for road safety and national mobility in Saudi Arabia. By establishing a unified system for traffic signage and control devices, SHC 602 enhances road user experience, reduces accidents, and supports Saudi Arabia's ambitious infrastructure goals under Vision 2030.

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Whether you're a traffic engineer, policymaker, or an informed driver, understanding SHC 602 is essential to contributing to a safer and more efficient road network across the Kingdom.

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