Can Tourist Drive in Saudi Arabia? Yes, tourists can drive in Saudi Arabia. However, you must have a valid driver’s license from your home country and an International Driving Permit (IDP).
It’s important to note that Saudi Arabia only recognizes IDPs that the government of your home country issues.
Can Tourist Drive in Saudi Arabia
Driving in a foreign country can be challenging, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the local traffic laws and regulations. As a tourist in Saudi Arabia, you may be wondering if you’re allowed to drive while you’re there. We’ll provide you with all the information you need to know about driving in Saudi Arabia as a tourist.
If you are a female tourist, it is advisable for you to read this guide: Female Tourists Drive in Saudi Arabia
Driver’s License Requirements
To drive in Saudi Arabia, you must have a valid driver’s license from your home country. If your license is not in Arabic, you must also carry an Arabic translation of your license. An IDP is not a substitute for a driver’s license and must be carried together with your original driver’s license.
Renting a Car
Visitors to Saudi Arabia are allowed to rent a car. Car rental companies usually authorize visitors to drive their vehicles on the basis of the border number.
It is necessary to note that rental cars may come with restrictions and conditions, so be sure to read the rental agreement carefully before signing it. To rent a car in Saudi Arabia, you must be at least 21 years old and have a valid driver’s license and an IDP.
Some rental companies may require a credit card for a deposit, so check with the rental company for their specific requirements. When renting a car, you should also ensure that you are fully insured and that the vehicle is equipped with necessary safety features, such as airbags and seat belts.
Road Rules and Regulations
- Driving is done on the right-hand side of the road.
- Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers.
- The speed limit in urban areas is 60 km/h, and on highways, it is 120 km/h.
- Using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited.
- The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.0%.
- It is illegal to drive without insurance.
Road Safety
Driving in Saudi Arabia can be challenging, especially if you need to familiarise yourself with the roads. It’s important to be aware of road safety regulations and to drive carefully. Here are a few tips to help you stay safe while driving in Saudi Arabia:
- Avoid driving during rush hour, especially in the cities.
- Always keep your headlights on, even during the day.
- Take extra care when driving on highways and in rural areas, as these roads can be poorly lit and poorly maintained.
- Pay close attention to road signs and speed limits.
- Avoid driving in the desert, as the roads can be dangerous, and you may not have access to help in case of an emergency.
Driving in Saudi Arabia as a tourist is possible, but it’s important to be familiar with the local traffic laws and regulations. Make sure to carry a valid driver’s license and an IDP and to drive safely and responsibly. By following these guidelines, you can have a safe and enjoyable driving experience in Saudi Arabia.
Hi Waheed, the info ref IDP is confusing. In other sources it says that if you have an EU drivind licence permit, no need for IDP.
What do you know avbout this?
Thank you
Dear Mihai,
While you may be able to drive in Saudi Arabia with an EU license, it could lead to complications with local authorities or car rental companies due to language barriers. An International Driving Permit (IDP), which includes an Arabic translation of your license, is generally recommended to avoid such issues.
Best,
Waheed
Hello, I have another question regarding this point. So my brother in law is an European citizen. He has a 1 year visit visa. He has already been in Saudi (by air) however we would like to go to Bahrain or Doha by car. Will he be allow to enter back in KSA by car on his visit visa?
Dear Anto,
Tourists are not permitted to drive between Saudi Arabia and Bahrain in a hired car. You can also check Travel from Saudi Arabia to Bahrain by Road
Hello Waheed,
Sorry I may not have formulated well my question.
He will be a passenger, I will be driving my own car since I am a resident of Saudi. In that case would not be any problem right?
Helo
I am in business visit in Saudi Arabia. I am UAE resident and have valid UAE driving licence. How can my friend authorise me to drive his car. No option found in Absheer.
HI ,
IS THE IDP NECESSARY TO RENT AND DRIVE A CAR IN SAUDI , THERE’S NO WAY AROUND IT ?
The rental car company may allow you to rent a car without an IDP, depending on your license. However, it is recommended that you obtain an IDP. You can contact the rental car company to inquire about their specific requirements.
Hello
Can a visit visa holder with IDP drive the car of father in law?authorisation is not possible through absher.Any other way?
Can i drive my fathers car with IDP which i holds and i am in visiting visa
Aswk i have a indian valid license i am on visit visa to saudi can i drive as in the gulf neews article it is said Idp is not require
Due to new tourism boosting rules.
I’m Pakistani I work in Saudi Arabia but recently days I carry a car from rent company for tour with friends but In check post I was fine 5000 riyal.
I have saudi driving license and went final exit from country and came back as visitor can I drive car in Saudi Arabia with same previous valid saudi driving license.