Saudi Arabia deploys Middle East’s first heavy traffic simulator to test Hajj road durability

RIYADH — Saudi Arabia deploys a heavy vehicle simulator to stress-test Hajj routes for 20-year longevity, the first of its kind in the Middle East. In a video posted on the Saudi Press Agency’s official X account, the Roads General Authority announces the launch of the Heavy Traffic Load Simulator, an advanced system that enables the replication of traffic conditionsfor more than 20 years into the future. According to the video, the Simulator is meant to be a practical solution for testing new asphalt mixes. With high operational capacity, the simulator completes 26,000 load cycles in just 24 hours to simulate intensive road usage. In addition, to evaluate the performance of asphalt mixes under both cold and hot conditions, the system can simulate temperatures ranging from 15 to 60 degrees Celsius, allowing the Authority to accurately assess how well these materials withstand heavy traffic before deploying them on actual roads. This cutting-edge device helps improve cost efficiency and extend the lifespan of the road network, ensuring compliance with required standards and specifications.