Renting a car is the first thing you must do when travelling around Saudi Arabia. Public transport isn't very good outside of the biggest cities, so having your own car lets you go where you want. Some highways go through the desert, mountain roads with sharp turns, and busy city streets with a lot of fast traffic. Before you go on this trip, you need to learn the rules of the road in Saudi Arabia to travel confidently, whether on the busy roads of Riyadh or the quiet stretches that lead to the Empty Quarter.
Most rental companies allow drivers at least 21 years old, but some require 25 for larger vehicles. You must show a valid driving licence from your country, and in many cases, an International Driving Permit is required if your licence is not in English or Arabic. Make sure your licence is still valid for the whole rental period.
When booking, you will choose between manual and automatic cars. Many tourists prefer automatic because driving in Saudi cities can be intense. Check the rental agreement for kilometre limits. Some contracts include unlimited kilometres, while others have strict daily limits with extra charges for going over. Insurance is another crucial point. Basic insurance is usually included, but you may want to add full coverage to protect against desert driving risks or accidents.
Companies often block a deposit on your credit card at the rental counter. This is released when you return the car in good condition. Fuel is cheap in Saudi Arabia compared to many countries, but you should still keep an eye on the tank. Petrol stations are common in the cities but far apart on highways and in the desert. Always refuel before starting long trips. The convenience of car rental means you can drive directly from the airport to your destination.
Before you start your trip, you must understand the licence rules for visitors. This is important because your car rental and insurance depend on it. Saudi Arabia accepts licences from some foreign countries, but in most cases, you also need an International Driving Permit (IDP). If your licence is written in English or Arabic, you can drive without problems for a short visit. However, if your licence is in another language or script, such as Cyrillic or Chinese, the IDP is necessary. The IDP is a translation of your home licence and must always be carried with the original card. Without both, you risk fines or rejection from rental companies.
Your passport and visa must also be valid during your rental period. Rental companies check these documents before giving you the keys. Tourists are usually allowed to drive with a foreign licence and an IDP for their visit. Long-term residents, however, must apply for a Saudi licence, but this process is not needed for short-term travellers. It is important to remember that an IDP is not a stand-alone licence. It does not replace your national licence but works only as support. Always keep both documents with you and your car rental papers in case the police stop you for inspection.
Tourists must follow traffic regulations in Saudi Arabia because violations can result in high penalties and affect their rental agreement. Drivers must keep to the right-hand side of the road. Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers in the vehicle, not just the driver. Using a mobile phone while driving is illegal unless you use a hands-free system. Children under ten must not sit in the front seat, and child seats are required for younger kids.
Speed limits in Saudi Arabia vary depending on the road. On highways, the limit is usually between 120 km/h and 140 km/h, but it can be as low as 50 km/h in cities. Always look for posted signs, as speed cameras are standard. Exceeding the limit by even a small margin can result in fines automatically sent to the rental company. Roundabouts are common, and vehicles inside the roundabout have the right of way. Overtaking is allowed only on the left side, and tailgating is considered a serious offence. Stopping in the middle of the road, even for short periods, is not permitted.
When you explore Saudi Arabia by car, you will notice that local drivers often drive fast, change lanes suddenly, or ignore signals. To stay safe, you need to practise defensive driving at all times. This means anticipating what other drivers may do and being prepared to react calmly.
One of the most important tips is to keep a safe distance between your car and the one ahead. Tailgating is common in busy cities, but you should always maintain enough space to stop if needed. Be careful at intersections, as some drivers may ignore traffic lights. Always check mirrors before changing lanes, especially on highways where cars may approach quickly.
There are unique hazards outside the cities. You may encounter camels crossing highways, particularly at night. Their size and dark colour make them hard to see, so reduce speed in desert areas. Sandstorms can also reduce visibility and make roads slippery. If there’s a storm, slow down, switch on your hazard lights, and wait until conditions improve.
Emergencies can happen anywhere, from a busy city street to a quiet desert road. Being ready helps you stay calm and safe while following traffic laws in Saudi Arabia. The first step is knowing the emergency numbers. In Saudi Arabia, dial 933 for road accidents or 999 for police assistance. Always keep your phone charged and carry a backup power bank, especially if you travel outside the main cities. Many highways have long stretches with no services.
Carry a first aid kit in your car along with basic tools such as a tyre jack, spare tyre, and jumper cables. Desert driving may require extra items like a tow rope and an air pump. If your rental car breaks down, contact the rental company immediately. Most major companies have 24-hour roadside assistance. Keep the rental contract handy, as it includes emergency contact numbers and coverage details. Always park safely at the side of the road before calling for help.
You must also respect local customs and cultural practices aside from the driving rules in Saudi Arabia. These may not be written in official law books, but they are just as important for tourists. During prayer times, shops may close and traffic can slow down near mosques. Plan your journey with this in mind, especially in smaller towns. Avoid loud behaviour or music in residential areas during these times. Female tourists can drive legally, but should always carry the correct documents, including their licence and IDP.
When you drive in Saudi Arabia, you must understand the penalties for breaking the law. The country has a strict system of traffic laws, and violations can result in high fines or other consequences. Common offences include speeding, using a mobile phone while driving, running red lights, and not wearing seat belts.
The penalty system is divided into levels. Minor violations, like parking incorrectly, may result in smaller fines, while major violations, such as reckless driving, can lead to vehicle impoundment or even licence suspension. For tourists, rental companies may cancel their contracts if they are caught committing serious offences. The points system is another important part of Saudi Arabia traffic regulations. Each violation adds points to your record, and too many points can result in losing the right to drive. While this mainly affects residents, tourists may also face consequences if points accumulate during their stay.
Saudi Arabia has some of the world’s lowest fuel prices. Petrol stations are common in cities and along highways, but you should always fill up before entering remote desert routes. Most rental cars run on petrol, and stations provide both 91 and 95 octane grades. Always check which fuel your vehicle requires. Payment is usually made in cash or by card at the station. Keep receipts in case your rental company asks for them later.
Car rental prices vary depending on the type of vehicle and rental length. Economy cars are the cheapest, while SUVs and four-wheel drives cost more but are better for desert or mountain driving. Insurance is often included, but it is essential to review the contract carefully.You should also consider tolls and parking fees. Toll roads are not common, but they do exist in some areas. Parking in cities may require payment at meters or through mobile apps. Always park only in legal areas, as violations can lead to fines.
Travelling through Saudi Arabia by car gives you the freedom to see more than just the cities. With these driving rules in mind, you enjoy mountain passes, desert highways, and seaside roads at your own pace. This guide has shown you the most essential points: licence rules, traffic regulations, safety advice, cultural etiquette, and what to do in emergencies. Rent a car in Saudi Arabia with Final Rentals to make the most of your journey. You can pick up your vehicle at major airports in Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, Abha, Tabuk, and Jazan.
