Saudi Driving License Valid Countries: The Complete List
A Saudi Arabian driving license is recognized and accepted by several countries, making it a valuable document for international travel. This guide provides a complete list of the Saudi driving license valid countries, clarifying where the license is accepted directly, such as throughout the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council), and where an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required for you to drive legally.
Countries That Accept the Saudi Driving License Directly
You can drive in the following countries using only your valid Saudi driving license, without the need for an IDP. This is primarily due to agreements within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and other specific bilateral agreements.
| Country | Notes |
| Bahrain | Valid for driving and can be converted to a Bahraini license. |
| Kuwait | Fully valid for driving for both citizens and expatriates. |
| Oman | Fully valid for driving. |
| Qatar | Fully valid for driving. |
| United Arab Emirates | Fully valid for driving in all emirates, including Dubai and Abu Dhabi. |
| Jordan | Accepted for driving for visitors. |
| Austria | Officially recognized and accepted for driving. |
Countries Requiring an International Driving Permit (IDP)
For travel to almost any other country, you will need to get an International Driving Permit. The IDP is an official translation of your Saudi license and is recognized in over 150 countries worldwide. You must carry both your IDP and your original Saudi license together.
If you need to get an IDP, you can follow our detailed guide on how to convert your Saudi license to an International Driving Permit.
(This section now contains the crucial internal link to your other pillar post.)
Country-Specific Driving Guides
For more detailed information on driving in specific popular countries with your Saudi license, please see our dedicated guides:
How to Drive in Bahrain with a Saudi License
How to Drive in Kuwait with a Saudi License
How to Drive in Jordan with a Saudi License
Driving in the USA with a Saudi License
Driving in Canada with a Saudi License
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: In how many countries is the Saudi driving license valid?
A: The Saudi license is directly accepted in all 5 other GCC countries plus a few others like Jordan and Austria. However, when combined with an International Driving Permit (IDP), it becomes valid in over 150 countries worldwide.
Q: Is the Saudi driving license valid in the USA?
A: Not on its own. To drive in the USA, you must have an International Driving Permit (IDP) obtained in Saudi Arabia, which you must present along with your valid Saudi license. You can typically drive as a visitor for up to three months with this combination.
Q: Can I drive in Canada with a Saudi license?
A: Similar to the USA, you need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to accompany your Saudi license to drive legally in Canada as a visitor.
Q: Is the Saudi license accepted in the UK?
A: Yes, you can drive in the UK with your Saudi license for up to 12 months. If you become a resident and stay longer than one year, you will be required to obtain a UK driving license.
Q: What is the difference between direct validity and using an IDP?
A: Direct validity means you only need your Saudi license card (e.g., in the UAE). Using an IDP means you need two documents: your original Saudi license PLUS the IDP booklet, which translates your license for foreign authorities (e.g., in the USA or Germany).