Hidden Dust (PM2.5) and Neighbor Rights: Your Complete Guide to Dealing with Adjacent Construction Sites in Saudi Arabia 2025

Introduction: Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam... Open Construction Workshops

If you live in any major Saudi city today, you're likely living next to at least one construction site. The Kingdom is witnessing a massive urban boom as part of Vision 2030, which is great for the economy and development. But let's be honest: living next to an active construction site isn't just a minor inconvenience—it's a real health and legal challenge that thousands of residents face daily.

We wrote this guide for everyone suffering from construction dust infiltrating their home, continuous noise, or even cracks in their walls due to excavation and demolition vibrations. We'll explain what "hidden dust" is and why it's dangerous, how to protect your home technically, what your legal rights are, and how to act if you're affected.

First: What is Hidden Dust (PM2.5) and Why Should You Be Concerned?

When we talk about "hidden dust," we're talking about something far more dangerous than the regular dust you can see. Fine particles scientifically known as PM2.5 are very small particles with a diameter not exceeding 2.5 micrometers—that's 25 times smaller than a human hair!

Why is PM2.5 Dangerous?

Regular dust you can see settles on surfaces and can be cleaned. But PM2.5 particles are completely different: You can't see them with the naked eye because they're microscopic. Your nose and throat can't filter them like they do with larger dust. They penetrate deep into the lungs and reach the air sacs. Blood absorbs them and they travel to all body organs. They remain suspended in the air for hours and don't settle easily.

Scientifically Proven Health Risks

According to the World Health Organization and medical studies, continuous exposure to PM2.5 causes: Respiratory diseases such as asthma and chronic bronchitis. Cardiovascular diseases and strokes. Lung cancer with long-term exposure. Aggravation of allergies and sinus conditions. Growth and development problems in children. Weakened cognitive functions and increased anxiety and depression.

What Does This Have to Do with Construction Sites?

Construction dust isn't ordinary dust. Excavation, demolition, and mixing operations release particles containing: Crystalline silica, which is one of the most dangerous substances for lungs and causes silicosis and lung cancer. Cement, gypsum, and concrete particles. Heavy metals from old building materials. Various fibers and chemical compounds.

The National Center for Environmental Compliance in Saudi Arabia monitors PM2.5 levels in various regions and has recorded notable increases in some areas, especially near major construction sites.

Second: The Technical Problem in Saudi Villas

Here we reach the core point: Why does dust enter your home despite closing the windows? The answer lies in the quality of windows used in most Saudi buildings.

Commercial Aluminum Windows: The Hidden Problem

Most villas and apartments in Saudi Arabia are equipped with "commercial aluminum windows"—the cheapest and most widespread type. These windows use brush seals instead of airtight rubber gaskets. The problem is that these brushes deteriorate quickly with use and sun exposure. They leave small gaps through which fine dust easily infiltrates. They don't provide a hermetic seal as they should. Over time, they become virtually useless in preventing dust.

A Simple Test for Your Windows

Do you notice fine dust accumulating on interior window sills despite closing them? Do you feel a slight air draft when approaching the closed window? Can you clearly hear wind or outside noise? If you answered yes to any of these questions, your windows don't provide adequate insulation.

Third: The Technical Solution - Thermal Break Windows

If you live next to a construction site or in a high-pollution area, investing in high-quality windows isn't a luxury—it's a health necessity.

What are Thermal Break Windows?

Thermal break windows are an advanced technology in aluminum frame manufacturing. The basic idea is having an "insulating separator" made of polyamide material inside the frame that separates the outer and inner parts. This separator prevents heat and cold transfer through the metal frame. It prevents condensation (moisture) on glass. It provides excellent sound insulation. Most importantly: it allows for the installation of airtight rubber gaskets.

EPDM Gaskets: The Secret to Airtight Sealing

The real difference lies in the type of gaskets used. Good thermal break windows use EPDM rubber gaskets, which stands for Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer. These gaskets feature: High resistance to ultraviolet rays and heat. Flexibility that lasts for many years without cracking. Multi-layer airtight sealing that prevents any leakage. Resistance to ozone and harsh weather conditions.

Double Glazing

Advanced windows come with double or triple glazing—two or three layers of glass with a gap filled with insulating argon gas. This design provides: Thermal insulation that reduces electricity bills by up to 30%. Sound insulation that reduces noise by 30-35 decibels. Protection from ultraviolet rays by 99%.

Cost and Return

Yes, thermal break windows are more expensive than regular commercial windows. Prices range from 800 to 1,500 SAR per square meter compared to 250-450 SAR for regular windows. But think of it as a long-term health investment: Reducing treatment costs for respiratory diseases. Saving on electricity bills over years. Peace of mind from noise and dust. Increased property value when selling. Lifespan of up to 50 years with minimal maintenance.

Tips When Buying

Make sure the windows are certified to comply with Saudi Building Code. Ask for the thermal transfer coefficient (U-Value), which should be less than 2.0. Ensure multi-layer EPDM gaskets are present. Choose aluminum thickness of at least 1.5 mm. Request a warranty of at least 10 years.

Fourth: Your Legal Rights as an Affected Neighbor

Many citizens don't know that they have clear legal rights when affected by adjacent construction work. Saudi law protects neighbor rights and provides mechanisms for compensation and cessation.

Types of Damages You Can Claim Compensation For

Material damages include: Cracks and fissures in walls from excavation and demolition vibrations. Infrastructure damage such as water or electricity networks. Damage to interior possessions like furniture from accumulated dust. Continuous cleaning costs and air conditioning maintenance.

Moral damages include: Decrease in property market value. Continuous disturbance from noise and dust. Impact on your and your family's health. Tenant reluctance if the property is investment-oriented.

Permitted Working Hours for Contractors

According to municipality regulations, there are strict controls on working hours for construction projects in residential neighborhoods. Permitted working hours are: Sunday to Thursday from 6 AM to 6 PM. Saturday from 1 PM to 6 PM. Friday—no work allowed at all. High-noise work (90 decibels and above) is only allowed from 9 AM to 5 PM.

Contractor Obligations Toward Neighbors

Contractors are required by regulations to: Announce concrete pouring work and notify adjacent property owners three days before starting work. Install temporary barriers (hoarding) with specific specifications to reduce dust and noise. Continuously wet dusty surfaces to reduce dust emissions. Cover materials that can become airborne with plastic sheets. Clean vehicle and equipment wheels before exiting the site.

Non-Compliance Means Fines

Contractors who don't comply with these regulations face immediate fines from the municipality, and affected neighbors have the right to claim additional compensation.

Fifth: How to File an Official Complaint?

If you've suffered damages from an adjacent construction site, you have several official channels to file a complaint and claim your rights.

Step One: Document the Damage

Before anything, document everything. Take clear photos of damages (cracks, accumulated dust, etc.). Record videos of noise showing time and date. Keep cleaning and air conditioning maintenance bills. If there are cracks, get a technical report from a classified engineering office. Keep medical reports if your health or your family members' health was affected.

Step Two: Contact the Contractor Amicably

Before escalating, try direct communication with the contractor or project owner. Many problems are solved through dialogue. Document this communication (WhatsApp messages, emails) as evidence later.

Step Three: File a Report with the Municipality

If the contractor doesn't respond, file an official report through one of the following channels:

The "Balady" app is the official app of the Ministry of Municipal, Rural Affairs and Housing. Download the app and log in with your Absher account. Select "Submit Report" and specify the violation type. Attach photos and documents. You'll receive a report number to track the status.

Call the unified number 940, which is the municipality's report center available 24 hours. Explain the problem clearly and get a report number.

Visit the sub-municipality in person. If the damage is significant, it may be better to visit the municipality and submit a written complaint with all documents.

Step Four: File a Lawsuit

If the problem isn't resolved or the contractor refuses compensation, you have the right to file a lawsuit before the General Court. The steps are: Prepare a technical report from an accredited engineering office documenting damages and estimating repair costs. Send an official notice to the contractor or adjacent property owner via mail or the competent authority. File an electronic lawsuit through the "Najez" platform of the Ministry of Justice. Attach all documents (property deed, damage photos, technical reports, witness statements if available). Claim material and moral compensation based on the damage extent.

Your Legal Rights

Saudi law grants you the right to: File a lawsuit and claim compensation. Request immediate cessation of the harmful source. Financial compensation for direct and indirect losses. Obligate the contractor to repair damages at their expense.

Sixth: Practical Tips for Coexisting with Adjacent Construction

While pursuing your rights, here are some practical tips to reduce the impact of adjacent construction:

Respiratory Protection

Use HEPA filters in home air purifiers. Change air conditioner filters more frequently than usual. Use N95 masks when necessary, especially for asthma and allergy sufferers.

Reducing Dust Entry

Close windows facing the construction site as much as possible. Use temporary adhesive tape to seal gaps around old windows. Place a wet mat at home entrances. Clean surfaces with a damp cloth instead of a dry broom.

Continuous Documentation

Take periodic photos (weekly, for example) to document dust accumulation or crack development. This continuous documentation is very powerful as legal evidence.

Communicate with Other Neighbors

Your neighbors may be suffering from the same problem. Collective complaints carry more weight and speed up response.

Seventh: Important Numbers You Should Save

Keep these numbers for emergencies and complaints:

Report and Complaint Numbers

Balady (Municipal Reports): 940 available 24 hours. Ministry of Municipal Affairs: 199040. Civil Defense (for fires and emergencies): 998.

Useful Electronic Platforms

Balady app: For filing and tracking reports. Najez platform (najiz.sa): For filing lawsuits. Absher platform: For various government services.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I completely stop adjacent construction?

No, you cannot prevent someone from building on their land if they have a valid building permit. But you have the right to demand their compliance with regulations and compensation for any damages.

How long does the municipality take to respond to a report?

Usually, the municipality responds within 24-72 hours for urgent reports. Continuous follow-up through the app speeds up the process.

Do I need a lawyer to file a compensation lawsuit?

It's not mandatory, but it's recommended, especially if the damages are significant. A lawyer specialized in real estate helps you estimate appropriate compensation and speed up procedures.

Is an engineering report necessary for the lawsuit?

Yes, the engineering report is one of the most important documents supporting your lawsuit. It helps prove the damage and estimate repair costs and is considered strong evidence before the court.

What if the contractor is working without a permit?

This is a serious violation. Report immediately through the Balady app or by calling 940. The municipality will take strict measures that may include stopping work.

Can I claim compensation for health damages?

Yes, if you prove through medical reports that your health or your family members' health was affected by dust or noise, you can also claim compensation for health damages.

Conclusion

Living next to a construction site is a real challenge, but you're not helpless. You have clear legal rights, and there are official bodies ready to help you. The key is: Documentation, then documentation, then documentation. Every photo, every video, every bill can be valuable evidence.

On the technical level, if you're planning to renovate your home or build a new one, invest in thermal break windows with EPDM gaskets. This is an investment in your health and comfort for many years to come.

Share this article with those you know are suffering from the same problem. Knowledge is power, and rights are not lost when there's someone to claim them.