King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) is the main gateway to Jeddah and the holy city of Mecca. Located about 22 kilometers fromJeddah’s city centre, this airport is one of the busiest in the Middle East. As a traveller, you’ll find that renting a car is one of the easiest ways to get around upon arrival. The airport’s Terminal 1 is a state-of-the-art facility with convenient services, including on-site car rental counters, to help you start your trip smoothly.
Renting a car at Jeddah Airport gives you the freedom to explore the city and beyond at your own pace. Compared to relying on taxis or limited public transport, having a personal vehicle means you can drive directly to your destination without waiting. This King Abdulaziz International Airport car rental guide will walk you through why to rent a car at JED, the options available, and where to find rental services.
King Abdulaziz International Airport is a large and busy hub, and collecting a rental car is one of the most convenient ways to continue your journey. Jeddah’s city centre is not within walking distance and is about 20 to 30 minute drive away. Public transport options from the airport are limited. Taxis and ride-hailing services are available, but costs add up quickly.
Renting a car gives you complete control over your schedule. Whether your flight arrives late at night or you want to make unplanned stops, your transport is ready. This is helpful for business travellers with tight schedules. For tourists, a rental car makes it easy to explore beyond Jeddah, including the Red Sea coast, Mecca, located around 90 kilometres east, or embark on a longer road trip to Madinah, without relying on tours or drivers.
After a long flight, a private air-conditioned car offers welcome comfort and space for luggage. For longer stays or family travel, a rental car can also be more budget-friendly than riding multiple taxis.
King Abdulaziz International Airport offers a range of on-site car rental options, featuring vehicles that span from economy cars to larger SUVs. Counters typically operate 24/7 to accommodate flight schedules. You can book in advance or rent upon arrival. Renting without a prior booking may result in limited vehicle choices, higher costs, and longer wait times, especially during busy periods.
Benefits of booking online in advance:
Finding car rental desks at King Abdulaziz International Airport is easy in Terminal 1, where most flights arrive. After landing and clearing customs and baggage claim, you will enter the arrivals hall where all car rental counters are located.
International and domestic arrivals share the same arrivals area in Terminal 1. Regardless of where you flew from, you will head to the same car rental section. If you booked online, you can go directly to your chosen company’s counter, where staff will confirm your reservation, check documents, and get the keys.
Once the paperwork is complete, collecting your car is quick and convenient. Vehicles are parked in a large multi-level car park directly connected to Terminal 1, so no shuttle bus is required. You can walk there with your luggage using lifts or escalators. Each rental company has clearly marked parking bays, making it easy to find your vehicle. Check the exterior briefly before leaving.
Returning your car is just as simple as collection. Follow the signs for car rental return as you approach the airport. Park in the designated area and complete a quick inspection with the staff. From there, you can walk straight into the departures hall.
Prices for a Jeddah airport car rental vary based on vehicle type, rental duration, and the time of booking.
Economy cars are the most affordable option and are ideal for short trips or budget-focused travellers. Rates start from around USD 36 per day for a hatchback. These deals are most common when booking in advance.
Larger vehicles come with higher daily rates. SUVs typically start from USD 44 per day, while premium Four Wheel Drive models often exceed USD 63 per day. Luxury sedans and high-end SUVs usually range from USD 150 to USD 180 per day.
Seasonal demand affects pricing. During busy periods such as religious holidays or school breaks, rates often increase. Booking early usually secures better prices, while last-minute rentals tend to be more expensive. Longer rentals often result in a lower daily rate, with weekly bookings offering a better overall value.
Comparing options in advance helps you find a car rental at King Abdulaziz Airport that fits your budget. Verify what is included in the quoted price, including insurance, mileage, and taxes.
Choosing the best type of car to rent at Jeddah Airport depends on your travel needs, group size, and plans. Here is a breakdown of common car types and who they are best for.
If you are travelling solo or as a couple with light luggage, an economy or compact car is ideal. These cars are budget-friendly, fuel-efficient, and easy to drive in city traffic. Economy models are widely available at JED, but they are also very popular. If you want the cheapest economy car rental at Jeddah Airport, it is wise to book online in advance to guarantee one is held for you.
A standard sedan is a strong all-purpose choice, especially for small families or business travellers who want more comfort. If you plan to do a lot of city driving combined with highway trips, such as visiting nearby towns or attending meetings across Jeddah, a sedan is a solid option. Many travellers choose an intermediate sedan because it balances fuel efficiency and space.
For larger groups, families with children, or travellers carrying more luggage, an SUV or multi-purpose vehicle may be the best option. SUVs offer spacious interiors and higher ground clearance. They are comfortable for long drives and suitable for travel outside the city, including desert excursions or trips to Taif. SUVs are also popular for family journeys to pilgrimage sites, as they accommodate both passengers and luggage in one vehicle. These rentals cost more, but sharing the expense across a group can make them reasonable.
Jeddah also offers a selection of premium rental vehicles. These cars are ideal for travellers seeking extra comfort, performance, or a more stylish experience. Luxury rentals often feature advanced amenities and powerful engines, which are well-suited for highway driving. These vehicles usually require higher deposits and additional insurance checks. While not necessary for most tourists, premium cars appeal to business travellers or those looking to upgrade their driving experience.
Below are practical guidelines to help you make the most of your Jeddah car hire:
Always reserve your car before arriving in Jeddah. Many travellers wait until landing and then face long queues or find that only expensive models are available. Booking online locks in better pricing and guarantees availability. Arranging a rental on arrival often means more time at the counter and the risk that no suitable cars remain, especially during busy periods such as Hajj season.
Double-check your reservation details before travelling. Keep your confirmation handy and note the terminal location of your rental counter, as well as its operating hours. If you arrive through a different terminal or your flight plans change, contact the rental company in advance.
Pay attention to fuel policy, mileage limits, and insurance coverage. Full insurance is often recommended for peace of mind. Ensure you have the required documents, including a valid driver's license and, where applicable, an International Driving Permit. A credit card in the main driver’s name is also needed for the security deposit.
Rental charges are based on fixed time periods, so plan your pickup and return times carefully. Returning the car close to the original pickup time helps avoid extra charges. Allow extra time for traffic when heading back to the airport. At pickup, inspect the vehicle with the agent, photograph any existing damage, and ensure it is noted on the agreement. Before returning the car, refuel if required to avoid additional charges.
Planning ahead makes all the difference when travelling through Jeddah, especially at a busy hub like JED. Secure your car in advance to avoid long queues, limited availability, and higher last-minute prices. With Final Rentals, you can easily book a car rental at King Abdulaziz International Airport online. Enter your travel dates, select a vehicle for your trip, and provide your driver's information. Book and manage your car rental at any time. Download the Final Rentals app on Google Play and the App Store.
