How Does Driving Rules Work in Saudi Arabia?
Last verified: 2025-06 · Middle East
1The Quick Answer
Drive on the right; women have been allowed to drive since 2018; speed cameras are everywhere; Riyadh traffic is very heavy.
2What You Need to Know
Saudi Arabia drives on the right side of the road. An international driving permit alongside your home country license is required for tourists. Women have legally been permitted to drive since June 2018. Speed cameras are extremely common on highways and city roads — fines are issued automatically. Seat belts are mandatory for all occupants. Traffic in Riyadh is notoriously heavy, especially during commuting hours and after prayer times. GPS navigation is essential as address systems can be complex. Driving in the desert requires a 4x4 and proper preparation.
3Practical Tips
Practical Tips
- 1Speed cameras are hidden and ubiquitous — strictly observe posted limits, especially on intercity highways
- 2Use GPS navigation at all times as Saudi address systems can be confusing even for locals
- 3Avoid driving in Riyadh during rush hours (7–9am and 4–7pm) if possible — traffic is genuinely severe
Important Warning
Driving under the influence of alcohol carries zero tolerance in Saudi Arabia — this is both illegal and violates the total alcohol ban. Penalties include imprisonment and deportation.
How does this compare?
Driving Rules rules in nearby and similar countries:
Drive on the right, roads are excellent, but speed cameras are everywhere and the UAE has one of the world's highest road accident rates.
Driving in Cairo is extremely chaotic and not recommended for tourists — use Uber or Careem instead.
Drive on the right; an international driving permit is recommended, and be prepared for chaotic city driving and variable road conditions outside major routes.
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More About Saudi Arabia
Tipping is welcomed but not mandatory — 10–15% at restaurants is appreciated, and 10–20 SAR for hotel staff is standard.
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Riyadh has a modern 6-line metro (opened 2024), Uber and Careem operate widely, and the Haramain High Speed Railway connects Jeddah and Mecca.
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Healthcare quality is excellent at private hospitals, but costs are very high — travel insurance is essential.
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Alcohol is completely banned, drugs carry the death penalty, LGBT relationships are illegal, and criticizing the royal family is a criminal offense.
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Police: 999. Ambulance and fire: 911. Tourist police hotline: 920004444.
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Foreign women are no longer required to wear an abaya, but modest dress covering shoulders and knees is expected in public.
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