Car Hire in Saudi Arabia

Does Saudi Arabia have any unique traffic laws?

If you're looking to rent a car in Saudi Arabia, you should know that most local traffic laws are similar to the rest of the world. These include driving on the right and overtaking from the left, mandatory use of seat belts in front seats, and mobile phones can only be used hands-free. If rental cars carry children, those under ten can't sit in the front, and all children under 12 must have a seat booster or child seat. Speeding results in large fines, but you're legally allowed a 10% increase on the maximum speed. You'll generally see road signs in both Arabic and English in urban areas, but be aware that rural roads may only display signs in Arabic. Finally, the country's Islamic rules mean that you shouldn't be playing music in your car hire during calls to prayer. Additionally, any indication of alcohol consumption or purchase is considered a criminal offence.

What are the legal and documentation requirements for renting a car in Saudi Arabia?

While 18 is the minimum age to drive legally, you can only book rental cars in Saudi Arabia if you're over 21. Most car rental companies will bill a young driver surcharge for those under 25. At your provider's desk, you'll need to show your valid driving licence, a credit card in your name, and, in most cases, a form of ID such as a passport. Foreign nationals are advised to bring an International Driving Permit (IDP). However, driving licences issued in the UK, USA, Canada, the EU, and neighbouring states such as Bahrain, are typically accepted without an IDP. You can only drive on a foreign licence for up to three months, after which you must apply for a local driving permit. If planning to take your Saudi Arabia car hire into other countries, you must get what's called a NOC, or "no objection certificate", from your provider, which tends to offer cross-border permission to the UAE and Oman; however, crossing the borders with Jordan and Israel is forbidden.

Which areas of Saudi Arabia have the most traffic?

The population in Saudi Arabia tends to be concentrated in a limited number of locations, so country roads are mostly free, while urban areas may experience mild congestion. Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam can get high traffic at morning and evening commute times, as well as at the weekend (Friday and Saturday) and during the yearly Hajj pilgrimage, but the impact on your journey time will only be only a few minutes. If you're driving your car hire on busy roads, use the local Waze app to adapt to real-time traffic. Compared to some countries in the region, Saudi Arabia does not have as much congestion with minibuses, pedestrians, or animals. However, your car rental should be driven defensively at all times, as other drivers do not always obey traffic regulations; for example, they may turn from the wrong lane or not allow right of way. Outside cities, you must always make sure you have enough fuel, as petrol stations can be many miles apart. Also, be prepared to invest in a 4x4 if going to off-road locations.

What are the best scenic roads in Saudi Arabia?

One of the best roads for rental cars in Saudi Arabia is Highway 40, connecting the cities of Jeddah, Mecca, Riyadh, and Dammam. On this route, not only will you get to stop and experience the culture of urban life - including the site of Islam's holy city, you will also have miles of desert and rocky formations to gaze upon while driving on clear, high-quality streets. As you travel eastbound from the port of Jeddah to Riyadh, you'll pass by the protected wildlife sanctuary of Mahazat As-Sayd and Saja and Umm Al Ramth. Small villages and dunes will accompany your journey on either side and, towards the eastern coast, you'll catch a glimpse of greenery.