This research analyzes the impact of environmental law on progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with a focus on Saudi Arabia’s transition from a hydrocarbon-based economy. Using a 2022 cross-sectional design (N = 142) and multivariate OLS regression, the study assesses how regulatory density, enforcement capacity, and international commitments affect SDG performance. Results indicate a significant interaction (β = 0.17, p = 0.016), suggesting that the benefits of environmental laws depend on effective enforcement. Despite positive global trends, Saudi Arabia faces a notable enforcement gap (− 2.41), highlighting that implementation, rather than legislation, is the primary challenge. The study concludes that resource-dependent economies should prioritize strengthening institutions over creating additional regulations. Recommendations include improving compliance systems, leveraging market incentives, and establishing specialized courts. These findings provide practical guidance for aligning Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 with global SDG objectives.
Shatha Abdul Jalil Hasan Ismaeel (Sun,) studied this question.