Tips For Driving In Saudi Arabia | Bharti AXA GI

When travelling to Saudi Arabia it is exciting to make plans about all the things you will do and places you want to see. But once you’re there you need to figure out the best way of getting around. Usually taking a bus or other available local public transport is what most people use because it’s the best way of getting around in a new country.

In Saudi Arabia however, the cheapest and most convenient to move around is to rent or borrow a car and drive yourself rather than rely on the public transport system.   

Why Driving Is The Best Way To Move About In Saudi Arabia

1. Car rental is easily available and cost of petrol in Saudi Arabia is among the cheapest in the world. So why not make the most of it while you are there!
2. Roads and highways connecting major cities are of superb quality – wide, clear and well-built. Some of the inter-city highways have even been upgraded to 8-lanes. If you enjoy driving will simply love the experience of driving on Saudi roads.
3. Public transportation in many places can be erratic and non-existent. Plus distances in Saudi Arabia are really vast. So driving is the easiest and most convenient way to travel around within the Kingdom.

Here are some tips and guidelines to help you have a pleasant time driving in Saudi Arabia.

Check Validity of Your Driving License

To be able to drive in Saudi Arabia you need to have a valid international driving license. Before you travel, check about converting your Indian driving license to an international one any driving test you may have to take in Saudi itself. Also get other related papers in place like your Saudi Visa and travel insurance.

In Saudi Drive On The Right  

If this is your first time driving in Saudi, this may take a while to get used to. All vehicles in Saudi Arabia are left-hand drive and you need to drive on the right side of the road. This is the exact opposite of what we are used to in India.

Seat Belts Are Mandatory

Unlike India, not just the driver and front passenger but rear passengers need to belt up too. As per Saudi law both front and rear seat belts are compulsory. Do remember to follow this rule. It is for the safety of you and your loved ones.

Carry All Relevant Documents

As a foreign national driving in Saudi Arabia, you should always carry your valid driving license, passport, Saudi Arabia visa, registration papers and Saudi Arabia travel insurance. You will nedd them in case asked by the authorities in case of any accident or traffic violation.

Follow Traffic Rules

Check online or with the car rental company to get familiar with Saudi driving rules and laws as they can be pretty strict. Always drive within the specified speed limits. And keep the emergency helpline number stored on your phone.

Use these tips and drive safely in Saudi Arabia. Ensuring that you have your international travel insurance policy in place is an equally important safeguard in a foreign country. It will protect you in case of unforeseen circumstances such as an accident, loss, injury or misplaced papers.  

While driving around Saudi Arabia, don’t forget to drive down to some of the beaches there and enjoy some traditional Saudi dishes. You’ll find some of the best beaches in and around the large port city of Jeddah.