Parking for people with disabilities is part of a building's universal access system, not just a square painted blue. A space without a side aisle, far from the entrance, or separated from the building by a kerb without a ramp does not do its job, and may lead to comments on the drawings or at inspection. The Riyadh Municipality's building permit requirements refer to compliance with the "Simplified Guide to Universal Access Standards for Facilities", the parking design manual and the Saudi Building Code. This guide explains the elements of a correct space, how the number is set, common mistakes, and how to provide universal access from the space into the building.
Elements of a Correct Space
- Location: the closest to the building's accessible entrance.
- A side aisle next to the space for a wheelchair to get out.
- An obstacle-free route from the space to the entrance, without steps, with ramps where needed.
- Clear ground markings and a vertical sign.
- A level, non-slip surface.
The Number
The number of accessible spaces is set as a proportion of total parking according to the code and approved guides. The designer calculates it within the parking table the traffic study requires. Read: Parking requirements by activity.
Table: Element, Common Mistake and Solution
| Element | Common mistake | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Behind the building or far from the entrance | The nearest point to the accessible entrance |
| Side aisle | Missing or taken up by a column | A marked, protected aisle |
| Route to the entrance | A kerb or step without a ramp | A ramp at a suitable gradient and a continuous route |
| Basement | No nearby lift | Spaces next to the lift |
| Signage | Ground paint only | A ground marking and a vertical sign |
Universal Access Does Not Stop at the Space
The space is the start of the journey; the accessible route must continue through the entrance, corridors, lifts and toilets. So universal access is considered in the architectural design from the start. Read: Municipal review of architectural drawings.
Common Mistakes
- A space far from the entrance or behind the building.
- No side aisle.
- A kerb without a ramp between the space and the entrance.
- Basement spaces without a nearby lift.
- A ramp too steep to use easily.
Read: Parking dimensions and angles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do hospitals need more accessible spaces?
The nature of the use raises the need, and the number is set according to the code and requirements.
Is blue paint enough?
No; the space needs dimensions, an aisle, an accessible route and a sign.
Can two spaces share a side aisle?
The code and approved guides decide this; the designer reviews it when planning.
Do the requirements apply to existing buildings?
Access improvements may be required on renovation or change of activity. Read: Changing a shop's activity.
Who reviews accessible parking?
It is reviewed within the drawings and the traffic study when needed, according to the municipality's requirements.
How Abak Engineering Consultancy Helps
Abak is an accredited engineering office that designs accessible parking and universal access routes in line with the code and approved guides, from the space into the building, as part of an integrated parking design. See our parking design service, or contact us.
Regulatory information is based on the Balady platform and the Ministry of Municipalities and Housing, and procedures may be updated by the competent authority. Last reviewed: October 2026.