Navigating the busy streets of cities like Riyadh and Jeddah can be a challenge. Traffic is heavy and distances are large. Visitors can choose public transport, taxis, ride-hailing apps, or private cars. Buses (SAPTCO) are low-cost but have limited routes. Taxis and apps like Careem or Uber are easy but cost more. In many cases, renting a car in Saudi Arabia is an easier way to see the city. This guide compares all travel options and shows why a rental car often works best.
Transportation in Saudi cities includes public buses, taxis, ride-hailing apps, and developing metro systems. Buses are cheap and air-conditioned, but routes are limited and stops can be far apart. During busy events or Ramadan, buses can be very crowded.
Taxis are plentiful on city streets and at hotels. Fares can surge at night and on weekends. Drivers may agree on a fixed price if you negotiate before departing. You can also book taxis via ride-hailing apps.Other cities like Jeddah plan tram or light rail lines too. For now, these rapid transit options are not available for daily use, so most people drive cars or use taxis. Overall, many travelers find that renting a car is often the fastest and most flexible option.
In Saudi cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam, you can use buses, taxis or ride-hailing services for short trips, or take SAPTCO coaches and even flights between cities. Buses and coaches are very cheap, but journeys can take many hours. Flights and high-speed trains (like the Haramain train for pilgrims) are faster but cost more. Urban rail (metro) service in Riyadh and Jeddah is still under construction. Getting around in Saudi Arabia often requires a car. It lets you travel on your schedule and reach places that are not served by buses or trains. For example, SAPTCO coaches connect Riyadh with Jeddah and Dammam, but a car can do the same trip without waiting at a station. Think about your itinerary and group size: if you plan many city-to-city trips, have luggage or young children, a private car is a great fit. Buses and taxis work for shorter stays or solo travel. In the end, use what suits your trip.
Driving in Riyadh involves navigating wide multi-lane highways and ring roads that connect the city’s key areas. During peak travel times, from 7 to 9 AM and 5 to 7 PM, traffic can become heavy, especially on major roads. To avoid delays, try to plan your travels outside these busy hours. In Riyadh, always drive on the right side of the road. Speed limits vary. 40 to 60 km/h is the norm in city areas, and speeds of up to 120 km/h are allowed on highways.
To make driving in Riyadh smoother, use navigation apps to avoid traffic jams. They provide real-time information about road conditions and suggested routes. If you want to avoid the worst congestion, try to drive earlier in the day before rush hours kick in. On multi-lane roads, always use the right lane if you’re driving slower than the other vehicles, as faster cars pass on the left. Watch out for drivers who may change lanes quickly, and maintain a safe distance to prevent any sudden incidents.
Jeddah is a coastal city on the Red Sea. Key areas include the Corniche (waterfront promenade) and Al-Balad (the historic old town), as well as modern business districts. The main roads like King Abdulaziz Road and Tahlia Street can get congested, especially near busy markets and malls. Many shops and businesses close in the early afternoon (around 1 to 4 PM) for a long break, then reopen in the late afternoon. This means mid-afternoon traffic can ease, but roads and stores get busy again after 6 PM.
Driving at night in Jeddah often helps. After sunset, the air cools and traffic usually eases. Lights at the Corniche and city center at nighttime also makes drives pleasant. Street parking is common near shopping areas and the Corniche, often free or token-based. Be cautious in Al-Balad. Many streets are narrow and one-way. It is often easier to park on the edge of Al-Balad and walk its historic lanes. Overall, try to plan trips around the best times. For example, avoid Al-Balad around early evening when crowds gather. Driving in Jeddah after the evening prayers or late at night is often faster and more comfortable.
Dammam is the capital of the Eastern Province, located by the Persian Gulf, and it forms a metro area with Al Khobar and Dhahran. Roads here are flat, straight, and generally wide. The main highway is King Fahd Road, which runs between Dammam and Al Khobar. Traffic in this region is usually lighter than in Riyadh or Jeddah, except near busy shopping malls and business centers on weekends and evenings. The waterfront Corniche road in Khobar (just across from Dammam) is popular for evening strolls. Parking is available by the seaside parks and cafes.
In downtown Dammam, the King Abdulaziz Street area can get busy in the morning as people drive to work. However, parking is generally plentiful at large malls like Mall of Dhahran, Al Rashid Mall, and Boulevard Mall in Khobar. Street parking alongside roads is common and usually free; always check posted signs. If you drive east from Dammam, you reach the King Fahd Causeway into Bahrain (no one-way toll on the Saudi side). Fridays (the local weekend) are quiet until afternoon. By evening, malls and restaurants fill up as people relax.
When getting around Saudi Arabia, a few tips can make travel safer and more efficient:
Many scenic and cultural spots sit just a few hours away. These quick escapes show a different side of Saudi Arabia.
From Riyadh, you can drive to Diriyah, just 20 km away. This restored town is filled with mud-brick buildings, museums, and open-air cafes along Wadi Hanifa. It’s a calm place where you can learn about Saudi history without venturing far. Another option is Al Bujairi Heritage Park, about 25 km from the city center. It's ideal for a quiet stroll, traditional meals, and views of old Najdi-stle architecture. If you're looking for a natural break, head to Wadi Namar, 30 km south of the city. The small lake, picnic spots, and walking paths make it popular for locals looking to unwind.
From Jeddah, short drives also reveal hidden gems. About 30 km north, Obhur Creek offers beach resorts, seafood spots, and water activities. It’s a favorite weekend getaway for families. For something quieter, head 80 km up the coast to Thuwal, a small town with peaceful beaches and fewer crowds. You can also plan a visit to KAUST, located 90 km away. It’s a university community with science museums, coastal views, and quiet public spaces, though entry may require advance approval.
From Dammam, the coast offers plenty of quick stops. Half Moon Bay, about 45 km away, is a calm beach with soft sand and shallow water, great for swimming or sunbathing. In nearby Khobar, only 25 km away, the corniche provides scenic walking paths, green spaces, and waterfront cafes. A bit further inland, Ithra (King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture) in Dhahran is about 50 km from Dammam. It’s a modern cultural hub with art exhibits, a library, and interactive displays for all ages.
Getting around Saudi Arabia’s busiest cities offers a variety of options. While buses and taxis are affordable and convenient for short trips, renting a car provides the most flexibility and time-saving advantages. For smart, reliable travel, consider renting a car with Finalrentals. We offer air-conditioned vehicles, full insurance options, and 24/7 customer support. With us, you can drive on your schedule and explore more without hassle.
