Explore Riyadh Season 2025–2026: Events, Routes and Rental Car Guide

If you're reading this, you're likely gearing up for the rest of Riyadh Season. This annual event, running from October 10, 2025, to March 2026, transforms the capital into a hub of excitement with over 7,000 activities across 15 zones. Last season drew more than 20 million visitors, and this year, early numbers show a 15% increase in attendance already, thanks to new international acts and local flavors.

But with spots like Boulevard World and Kingdom Arena spread out—some 20 to 40 km apart—navigating can be tricky. That's where a rental car steps in. It gives you the flexibility to hop from one highlight to the next on your schedule, avoiding crowded public options.

Since you're joining late, we'll spotlight major cultural and entertainment events starting after November 22, 2025. We'll tie in practical promotions available through rental services, like discounts for event-goers or bundled deals with tickets.

As your reliable car rental in Saudi Arabia, we're here to answer all your questions: from why a car makes sense, to the best pickup spots for visitors and residents, and how to pair your ride with the Season's lineup.

Let's get you moving.

Why a Rental Car Unlocks the Best of Riyadh Season?

First things first: Riyadh Season isn't a single spot—it's a city-wide festival. Zones cover everything from music stages to food streets, pulling in up to 500,000 people on peak weekends. The Riyadh Metro has expanded to 176 km of track, serving over 3 million riders monthly, but lines can back up during rushes. Rideshares work too, but surges hit 50% higher fares on event nights.

A rental car changes that. You control your route, park for free at most venues (over 90% offer dedicated lots), and use apps like Waze to shave 20-30 minutes off trips. Saudi roads see about 18.5 fatalities per 100,000 people annually, but highway adherence drops that risk by 40% for careful drivers. Rentals start at 150 SAR ($40) per day for a compact model, including basic third-party insurance. Add collision protection for another 50 SAR—essential for peace of mind.

For the Season, many providers roll out targeted promotions. Book with proof of event tickets, and you can snag 10-20% off daily rates or zero-deposit monthly plans at 2,500 SAR. Fuel's cheap at 0.62 SAR per liter, stretching a full tank to 500 km. Visitors save big by bundling with flights—official partners offer seamless airport-to-rental transitions.

If you are a resident, opt for delivery to your door, cutting commute stress.

Note: Verify prices at the time of booking.

Convenient Pickup Locations: Tailored for Visitors and Residents

Where you grab your rental sets the tone for your trip. Riyadh boasts over 50 outlets, but focuses on convenience and cost. We'll break it down for foreigners arriving fresh and residents in everyday spots. All spots operate 24/7, where noted, with English support standard.

For visitors, the top choice is picking up a rental car at King Khalid International Airport (RUH), 35 km northeast of downtown. This gateway handles 30 million passengers yearly, making it ideal for seamless arrivals. Head to Terminal 5's arrivals hall—counters line the area, just a 5-minute walk from gates.

Free shuttles whisk you to the lot in 2 minutes. Economy cars go for 120 SAR daily; opt for SUVs at 250 SAR for group gear or longer drives. Show your passport, a valid license (International Driving Permit advised but not mandatory), and a credit card for the hold.

Why RUH? It's event-central: 20 km to Boulevard World, 15 minutes to Kingdom Arena. In 2025, airport pickups surged 25% during the Season, with apps enabling "fast track" bookings to skip queues. Charge electric models on-site—over 50 stations now support Saudi Arabia's green initiatives.

If you're extending your stay, consider Terminal 1 for domestic connections or Terminal 3 for quick international hops. Both have dedicated lots, and promotions like 15% off for multi-day rentals kick in here.

For residents, city centers beat the airport buzz. Olaya District, smack in the heart, offers light traffic and 10-minute pickups. Branches cluster near malls, with economy options from 100 SAR daily. It's 5 km from key zones, perfect for spontaneous evenings out.

Kingdom Centre area shines for central access—underground parking ties right in, and monthly no-deposit deals hit 2,500 SAR. Murabbah District, 3.5 miles from downtown, suits quieter starts; expect vans for families at competitive rates.

In the residential north of Riyadh or the Al Rajhi Grand Mosque? Doorstep delivery via mobile apps is the most convenient way—vehicles arrive in 30-60 minutes, with 21% more contracts in late 2025. Add-ons like GPS (20 SAR) or child seats (30 SAR) roll in easily.

Sensible tip: Compare rates online 7-14 days ahead for up to 40% savings. Snap timestamped photos of the car before driving, fuel at nearby ADNOC stations (open 24/7, every 5 km), and return it full to avoid fees. This approach gets you event-ready fast—airport reach in under an hour, residents even quicker.

Riyadh Season: Spotlight on Events

You're late to the party, but the lineup from November 22, 2025, to March 2026 is stacked with must-sees. We'll highlight each major cultural and entertainment draw, including dates, venues, what to expect, ticket details, and crowd sizes where known.

The Ring IV: Night of Champions – November 22, 2025

Imagine sitting close to the ring. You hear gloves hit hard. The crowd yells loudly. That is The Ring IV: Night of Champions on Saturday, November 22. It is a big boxing show at ANB Thunderdome in Diriyah. This place has good lights and seats for everyone. Doors open at 4:00 PM. You can get food from trucks outside. Small fights start at 6:00 PM. The big fight begins at 9:00 PM and ends around 1:00 AM. The main match is David Benavidez, who always wins, against Anthony Yarde from England. They fight for a world belt in the middleweight class.

Other fights have new boxers from Saudi Arabia and other places. It lasts four hours. Big screens show every move. People talk in English and Arabic. Tickets cost 300 SAR for normal seats with good views. VIP near the ring is 1,000 SAR. Buy on the Riyadh Season app fast—they go quick. About 15,000 people come. Half are local folks cheering hard. Half are from other countries, taking photos. It feels full of energy but safe for kids too, with play areas close by.

• What you see and the crowd feel: Watch small fights first, then the big one. There are DJ music breaks and meet fighters afterward. 15,000 people make it loud but fun. Mostly guys, but families come. Security is everywhere. The room stays cool at 22°C.
• Weather and what to bring: Day is 20°C, night 12°C. Good for sitting outside before going in. Take a light coat for the walk. No rain, but dust might blow—sunglasses help.
• How to get there by car: 20 km from the city center on Route 651. Straight road, 25 minutes. Free parking for 5,000 cars. Go by 3:30 PM for a spot. Leave early to skip slow traffic. Cameras watch speed at 80 km/h.
• What car to rent: Small sedan. Easy to drive in traffic. Fits four people and bags for snacks. Gas is cheap, one tank for the trip.
• Places to see nearby by car: After, drive 5 km to At-Turaif. Old houses light up at night. Free walk feels calm. Or 10 km to Bujairi Terrace for meat and rice food under the stars.
• Places to stay: The Ritz-Carlton Diriyah is 2 km away. Rooms cost 1,200 SAR a night. Has a pool and breakfast. Or Holiday Inn Diriyah, 800 SAR. Family rooms and gym.

Noor Riyadh Festival – November 22 to December 6, 2025

Now, after the noise of boxing, think of quiet beauty. Noor Riyadh Festival is that. It runs from November 22 to December 6. Free lights and art cover old Riyadh spots. Over 100 pieces from 40 countries. Lights on the walls at Al Masmak Fortress change colors. Sculptures move when you touch. Sounds play from speakers. Use your phone for extra pictures.

Starts 6:00 PM to midnight each night. Take 2-3 hours to walk it. No ticket, but the app helps for busy times. Last year, 1.2 million walked the paths. This year, 1.5 million with new phone tech. Families take photos. Couples hold hands. It is peaceful for all ages.

• What you see and the crowd feel: Walk free or take short tours. See the light tunnel at the fortress. Sound art at the palace. Thousands come each night, but spread out. Easy for kids with glow toys. Quiet spots to sit.
• Weather and what to bring: Nights 20°C at start, 13°C end. Lights feel warm, but the mist cools you. Scarf and shoes for paths. Low wet air, no sweat.
• How to get there by car: a 10 km loop in the center. Park for 2,000 cars. Drive 5-10 minutes between three spots. Lights off in the car to keep the show pretty.
• What car to rent: Small or electric car. Quiet, no noise to break the peace. Good for short trips, saves gas.
• Places to see nearby by car: 3 km to the National Museum till 9:00 PM, 10 SAR. See old Saudi things. Or 4 km to Deira Souq for lamps and fast food.
• Places to stay: Al Faisaliyah Hotel, 4 km away, 1,000 SAR per night with pool view. Or Ibis Styles Olaya, 500 SAR. Clean rooms, snacks all day.

Wow Festival: Cars, Golf, Music – November 22, 2025 (Closing Day)

Same day as lights, but for speed lovers, end November 22 at the Wow Festival. From 2:00 PM to 10:00 PM at Riyadh Golf Club and the roads near it. See new cars to touch. Pros teach golf swings. DJs play dance music. Eight hours of fun. Tickets cost 50 SAR for one person, 150 SAR family of four. 50,000 over four days, most on the last. Families play mini-golf. Groups eat at gardens—no alcohol, but juices.

• What you see and the crowd feel: Cars till dark, golf afternoon, music night. Lively 50,000, but a big space. Shaded breaks, kid areas.
• Weather and what to bring: 20°C day, 14°C night. Sun hat for golf, layer for music. Wind on grass, hold hats.
• How to get there by car: 15 km south of Highway 40, 30 minutes. Free parking 3,000, some dirt.
• What car to rent: SUV. Good for dirt parking, holds clubs or toys.
• Places to see nearby by car: 7 km west of Wadi Hanifah, free walks. Or 12 km Edge of Arabia art, 20 SAR.
• Places to stay: JW Marriott, 5 km, 900 SAR with golf help. Golden Tulip apartments 600 SAR, kitchen for BBQ.

The Ring V – December 27, 2025

December 27 rolls around, and if the first Ring got your blood up, The Ring V cranks it higher—a festive boxing blast right after Christmas that feels like the season's gift to fight fans. Back at ANB Arena in Diriyah, this one's a title-tilted thriller starting at 7:00 PM and punching past midnight with undercards warming the canvas from 8:00 PM.

Shakur Stevenson headlines, the slick southpaw defending his lightweight crown against a hungry challenger in a bout packed with footwork feints and power shots—add rising Saudi prospects on the bill, and you've got four hours of edge-of-seat drama under glaring lights and thumping sound.

Big screens zoom every sweat drop, and bilingual commentary keeps everyone looped in. Tickets kick off at 400 SAR for solid mid-tier views (cozy for couples) and top out at 800 SAR for front-row fever—snag 'em on the Riyadh Season app ASAP, as the 12,000 seats evaporate quickly.

The crowd? A merry 12,000 mix of locals toasting the holidays with cheers and expats swapping predictions—lively but controlled, with family sections and glow sticks for kids turning it into a block party vibe.

• What you see and the crowd feel: Undercards tease with local talent, building to Stevenson's showcase—expect fan parades and post-fight autographs. 12,000 pack in tight but joyful, holiday hats bobbing amid roars; all-ages safe with barriers.
• Weather and what to bring: 19°C daytime fade to 10°C nights—balmy for pre-fight parking chats, but snag a fleece for arena drafts. Dry air means no fog, just clear knockout views.
• How to get there by car: Same 20 km northwest trek on Route 651, 25 minutes even with yuletide traffic; free 5,000-spot lot—roll in by 6:00 PM, exit smart to dodge camera zips at 80 km/h.
• What car to rent: Compact sedan shines—zippy for the loop, trunk for wrapping-paper hauls or cooler of mocktails, seats four with elbow room.
• Places to see nearby by car: Unwind 5 km over to At-Turaif's lit ruins for a starry heritage stroll (free, 20-minute detour). Or 8 km to the Diriyah Nights market for spiced nuts and trinkets.
• Places to stay: Ritz-Carlton Diriyah, 2 km hop (1,200 SAR/night, holiday brunches and ring shuttles). Budget: Holiday Inn Diriyah at 800 SAR—cozy suites, gym, unwind for sore, cheer muscles.

Riyadh Motor Show – December 9 to 13, 2025

Fast-forward to December 9-13, and gearheads, buckle up—the Riyadh Motor Show (or Auto Show as locals call it) turns Kingdom Arena into a 100,000 sqm speed dream, open 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily for five straight days of chrome and torque.

Over 300 brands roll out supercars you can snap selfies with, EV test laps on indoor tracks (feel that silent whoosh), and chat pods with engineers spilling on tomorrow's wheels—think hydrogen beasts and self-driving demos amid live engine roars and pop-up cafes. Tickets are just 50 SAR for full roam access; projections nail 200,000 visitors, mostly young techies and families geeking over kid-scale racers in a buzzing, hands-on hum.

• What you see and the crowd feel: Roam exhibits freely, hop test drives (book slots via app), catch brand talks—200,000 spread thin means easy mingling, with shaded lounges for breaks and tot zones for mini mechanics.
• Weather and what to bring: 19°C days to 10°C nights—sunny for outdoor displays, but arena AC chills; cap and comfy kicks for track peeks, water bottle for dry-mouth demos.
• How to get there by car: 15 km east glide, 20 minutes on smooth roads; free 4,000-car lots—hit by 9:30 AM weekdays to park prime near gates.
• What car to rent: Mid-size for the win—boot swallows brochures and swag, stable for any lot gravel, fits a crew dreaming of upgrades.
• Places to see nearby by car: 8 km south to Royal Saudi Air Force Museum (free jets tie-in thrill). Or 15 km to Dirab Golf for post-rev putts (50 SAR fee).
• Places to stay: InterContinental Riyadh, 3 km close (1,100 SAR/night, valet and expo views). Or Novotel Al Najmah, 700 SAR—near shops for tire-kicking breaks.

International Coffee and Chocolate Expo – Mid-December 2025

Mid-December (December 2-6, to be exact) brews up the International Coffee & Chocolate Expo at Riyadh Front Exhibition Centre, a nose-tingling 10:00 AM-10:00 PM affair over five days where 200 vendors pour global roasts and mold sweet sculptures. Slurp Ethiopian singles from pour-over stations, roll up sleeves for barista classes on latte art, or watch live bean-roasting—it's a cozy corner of the Season for sippers and sweet teeth alike. Entry's 40 SAR for unlimited tastes; 50,000 attendees wander the aisles, chatting flavors in a warm, aromatic bubble of couples and foodie groups.

• What you see and the crowd feel: Vendor booths to workshops, chocolate carving demos—50,000 flow steadily, chatty lines at samples; family-friendly with kid chocolate painting.
• Weather and what to bring: 19°C outside, hall at 22°C—easy layers, reusable mug for eco-points and refills; mask optional for bean dust.
• How to get there by car: 25 km north ring road, 30 minutes; massive free parking—early bird by 9:45 AM skips lot hunts.
• What car to rent: Compact—nimble in expo shuffle, trunk for bean bags or truffle hauls.
• Places to see nearby by car: 10 km to Kingdom Centre deck (60 SAR skyline sips). Or 5 km Granada Mall for post-taste treats.
• Places to stay: St. Regis Riyadh, 6 km south (1,300 SAR/night, connoisseur teas). Fraser Suites studios, 650 SAR—kitchens for midnight melts.

XP Music Futures '25 – Mid-December 2025

December 4-6 drops XP Music Futures '25 at JAX District, Riyadh's creative strip—a 10:00 AM-starting three-day jam of panels, production workshops, and evening gigs where execs and artists swap notes on streaming and stages. From beat-making sessions to fireside chats with global labels, it's insider gold for creators; tickets 200 SAR full pass, drawing 50,000 pros in collaborative waves.

• What you see and the crowd feel: Day talks to night sets—50,000 network easy, tents buzzing with handshakes; inclusive for newbies and vets.
• Weather and what to bring: 19°C to 10°C—tent shade, notebook for gems; earplugs for loud afters.
• How to get there by car: 12 km northeast, 20 minutes; free 2,500 spots.
• What car to rent: Hybrid—green cred for the scene, quiet for lyric brainstorming.
• Places to see nearby by car: 4 km Misk Art Institute (free modern vibes). 9 km Al Olaya cafes for debrief drinks.
• Places to stay: Rosewood Riyadh, 5 km west (1,400 SAR/night, soundproof bliss). citizenM, 550 SAR—pod life for creatives.

WICKED The Musical – Late December 2025

Late December (December 3-January 3) enchants with WICKED at King Fahad Cultural Centre's Green Hall, nightly 8:00 PM curtains on a 2-hour-45-minute tale of witches' friendship amid spells and songs. Glinda's bubbles and Elphaba's flight dazzle in 350 costumes; 250 SAR tickets, 5,000 seats per show, filled with theater lovers.

• What you see and the crowd feel: Soaring arias, twisty plots—5,000 applaud thunderously, dress-up encouraged for immersive fun.
• Weather and what to bring: 18°C to 9°C—hall cozy, program for sing-alongs; comfy seats, no snacks inside.
• How to get there by car: Central 5 km, 10 minutes; valet or free lots.
• What car to rent: Compact—swift drop-off, space for playbills.
• Places to see nearby by car: 5 km Riyadh Gallery Mall (post-show shop). 8 km Souq Al-Thumairi souvenirs.
• Places to stay: Four Seasons Kingdom Centre, 2 km (1,500 SAR/night, luxe). Hilton Olaya, 750 SAR—views and valet.

Pluma Circus – Late December 2025

December 20-31, Pluma Circus tents Boulevard City with 7:00 PM/9:00 PM 90-minute shows of silks, clowns, and tunes—a Cirque du Liban gem for giggles. 100 SAR tickets, 100,000 overrun; joyful families abound.

• What you see and the crowd feel: Aerial flips, silly skits—100,000 laugh loud, heated tent for all-ages delight.
• Weather and what to bring: 18°C nights—tent warm, popcorn bucket; kid cushions for benches.
• How to get there by car: 8 km airport road, 15 minutes; free tent lot.
• What car to rent: Mid-size—gear for cotton candy hauls.
• Places to see nearby by car: 3 km, Boulevard World eats. 6 km Al Rajhi Park picnics.
• Places to stay: Radisson Blu Airport, 5 km (800 SAR/night, shuttles). Al Nakheel apartments, 450 SAR.

Diriyah Season: TYN Festival – January 1 to 31, 2026

New Year's TYN Festival at Diriyah Season (January 1-31) revives Najdi crafts 1:00 PM-10:00 PM daily at At-Turaif—markets, demos, free mostly; 20,000 monthly for cultural dips.

• What you see and the crowd feel: Artisan weaves, performances—20,000 mid-week calm, hands-on heritage high.
• Weather and what to bring: 18°C days/8°C nights—wraps for stalls; tote for buys.
• How to get there by car: 20 km west on Route 111, 25 minutes; free lots, SUV for paths.
• What car to rent: SUV—dust-ready for the outskirts.
• Places to see nearby by car: 2 km Bujairi Terrace dining. 10 km Wadi Safar hikes.
• Places to stay: Diriyah Gate on-site, 1,200 SAR. Nabni Residences, 700 SAR.

Joy Awards – January 17, 2026

January 17's Joy Awards at Kingdom Arena (8:00 PM, 3 hours) crowns Arab music stars with red carpets and sets—500 SAR tickets, 10,000 glitzy fans.

• What you see and the crowd feel: Speeches, hits—10,000 sparkle, celeb-spot frenzy.
• Weather and what to bring: 18°C/8°C—gown-friendly indoor; camera for snaps.
• How to get there by car: 10 km east, 15 minutes; free valet.
• What car to rent: Compact—posh drop-off ease.
• Places to see nearby by car: 4 km Riyadh Front after-party. 7 km Al Faisaliah Tower.
• Places to stay: Ritz-Carlton Al Rajhi, 1,300 SAR. Warwick, 650 SAR.

WWE Royal Rumble – January 30-31, 2026

January 30-31 WWE Royal Rumble at Kingdom Arena—prelims 7:00 PM Friday, rumble 8:00 PM Saturday, 30 stars in chaos; 600 SAR, 50,000 roars.

• What you see and the crowd feel: Over-the-top mayhem—50,000 chant wild, first non-US thrill.
• Weather and what to bring: 18°C/8°C—signs and foam fingers; ear protection.
• How to get there by car: 15 km, 20 minutes; 4,000 free spots.
• What car to rent: Mid-size, multi-site flexibility
• Places to see nearby by car: 5 km Riyadh Zoo, a day of fun. 12 km Diplomatic Quarter.
• Places to stay: Conrad Riyadh, 1,000 SAR. Moevenpick, 550 SAR.

Saudi Cup – February 13-14, 2026

February 13-14 Saudi Cup at King Abdulaziz Racecourse—undercards 4:00 PM Friday, finale 8:00 PM Saturday, $20M purse; 100 SAR, 100,000 turf lovers.

• What you see and the crowd feel: Elite gallops, interviews—100,000 tailgate upscale.
• Weather and what to bring: 22°C/12°C—hats for sun, binoculars.
• How to get there by car: 30 km on Highway 60, 35 minutes; vast free parking.
• What car to rent: SUV—dust and picnic gear.
• Places to see nearby by car: 10 km Al Rajhi Farms tours. 15 km Thumama Park.
• Places to stay: Equestrian Village, 900 SAR. Al Waha tents, 400 SAR.

Snooker 167 – February 2026

Mid-February Snooker 167 at sports hall—10:00 AM-10:00 PM sessions chasing golden ball; 150 SAR, 5,000 hushed watchers.

• What you see and the crowd feel: Pro breaks, tension—5,000 whisper cheers.
• Weather and what to bring: 22°C/12°C—indoor steady; scorecards.
• How to get there by car: Central 8 km, 12 minutes; free parking.
• What car to rent: Compact—quick hall hops.
• Places to see nearby by car: 6 km, Billiards Club practice. 9 km Souq Al-Zal.
• Places to stay: Assila Hotel, 700 SAR. Days Inn, 350 SAR.

Kings Cup MENA – March 2026

Mid-March Kings Cup MENA across stadiums—6:00 PM influencer soccer; 200 SAR, 20,000 per match.

• What you see and the crowd feel: 7-a-side thrills, fan zones—20,000 rowdy support.
• Weather and what to bring: 24°C/14°C—scarves for chants.
• How to get there by car: 10-20 km, 15-25 minutes; stadium lots.
• What car to rent: Mid-size—multi-site flexibility.
• Places to see nearby by car: 5 km local pitches. 12 km Yamamah Palace.
• Places to stay: Holiday Inn Stadium, 600 SAR. Fan camps, 300 SAR.

Saudi Masters Darts – March 2026

March 19-20 Saudi Masters Darts at Global Theater—7:00 PM finals, 16 pros; 300 SAR, 10,000 oohs.

• What you see and the crowd feel: Precision duels—10,000 gasp at 180s.
• Weather and what to bring: 24°C/14°C—venue cool; lucky charm.
• How to get there by car: 12 km, 18 minutes; free theater lot.
• What car to rent: Compact—easy theater park.
• Places to see nearby by car: 4 km Darts Lounge. 8 km Al Mamlaka Tower.
• Places to stay: Millennium Hotel, 800 SAR. Hostels, 400 SAR.

Fantastic Flag Football Classic – March 2026

March 21 Fantastic Flag Football Classic at Kingdom Arena—4:00 PM 3-team round-robin with Tom Brady; 250 SAR, 15,000 cheers.

• What you see and the crowd feel: No-tackle highlights—15,000 export energy.
• Weather and what to bring: 25°C/15°C—jerseys for spirit.
• How to get there by car: 15 km, 20 minutes; arena lots.
• What car to rent: SUV—tailgate trunk party.
• Places to see nearby by car: 7 km, American Corner culture. 10 km Wild Adventures Park.
• Places to stay: Park Inn, 650 SAR. Glamping, 350 SAR.

Note: Prices can vary, so verify before booking.

Essential Tips for Your Rental and Driving in Saudi Arabia

Renting means no waiting for taxis. Outlets are easy to find at airports like RUH or JED. Book online a week or two ahead to save, especially in the busy winter.

What You Need:

• Age: At least 21, but many companies want 23-25 for visitors because of insurance. Under 25? You might pay an extra young driver charge. No max age, but some ask about health.
• Documents: Your home license (in English or Roman letters) or a Saudi one; an International Driving Permit (IDP—not needed for 90-day visitors, but most renters ask for it to translate—get one from AAA or similar before you come); passport with visa (tourist eVisa or expat IQAMA); credit card in your name for the deposit (debit cards are rare due to fraud worries); and address proof for residents (like a bill or lease).
• Record: No big violations in the past year; some check the Absher app.
• Health: No sickness that spreads—places can turn you away if you seem unwell.

Insurance and Extras: Basic plan covers harm to others (it's the law). Add collision coverage to avoid paying for fixes yourself; theft protection is another option. For trips across borders, like to the UAE, you need a special permission—it takes five days.

Quick Tips for Ease:

• Check the car fully: Snap dated photos of scratches, tires, and odometer—problems rise 30% without them.
• Distance caps are usually at 200-300 km a day; going over costs extra.
• Bring it back with a full tank—gas stations are few in remote areas.
• Women drivers: Allowed since 2018, but alone in small towns? Go with bigger companies.
• Apps: Ejar or Iyelo suit locals (no deposit sometimes); visitors, use airport spots.

Big mistake? Forgetting the IDP—20% get turned down.

Basic Rules: Keep It Legal

You drive on the right, like in the US or Europe. Signs are standard, but cameras watch closely. Highways like Route 40 from Riyadh to Jeddah go 120 km/h; city roads top at 60-80 km/h.

• Speed: Cities 40-60 km/h, country 100 km/h, highways 120 km/h (trucks 80 km/h). Apps like Waze warn of cameras—20 km/h over means a ticket.
• Seatbelts: Everyone buckles up, front and back. Kids under 9 need boosters (ask for rental add-on).
• Phones: Hands-free only—no holding or texting.
• Lights and Turns: On from dusk to dawn on big roads; signal three seconds ahead.
• Who Goes First: Let walkers cross; in circles, yield right.
• Tolls: Auto-charge on main routes like Riyadh-Qassim—your rental handles it.

During Ramadan: No eating or drinking where people can see—fines are high.

Road Safety: What's Out There and How to Handle It

Saudi Arabia has 400,000 km of roads, improving with new trains in cities. But 1.8 million crashes happened in 2022, often from speeding or tailgating. Drivers push 140 km/h and switch lanes fast.

• Road Types: Most highways are smooth and paved; country paths have holes and sand—get a 4x4 for places like the Empty Quarter. Floods in the east from April to May make dry beds dangerous—use weather apps.
• Animals and Sky: Camels wander on open roads—honk and slow to 40 km/h. Summer heat at 50°C can bend tires; fog in the north hides things in winter.
• Smart Driving: Check mirrors every 10 seconds; honk the light for thanks, not anger. For women: Rare issues, but lock doors at lights.
• Kids and Animals: Face back for babies under 2; tie leashes on pets.
• If Stuck: Use warning triangles; call 993 for police or ambulance, 994 for road help.

Good idea: Get the Absher and Najm apps for fines and help. Most crashes hit young men under 30—visitors, who drive steadily.

Alcohol, Drugs, and BAC: Play It Zero

Laws here are strict from faith—no room for error. BAC must be 0.00%—even a taste is against the rules. Alcohol is not allowed anywhere; having it can mean jail or leaving the country.

• What happens: Driving after drinking means a big fine, the car is taken for three months, the license is gone for 6-12 months, or maybe a year in jail. Do it again? Up to five years.
• Drugs: Same zero rule—even a bit of cannabis gets the same, plus harsher.
• Checks: Breath tests at stops; say no? Fine doubles.

For visitors: Stick to hotel drinks without alcohol. Expats: Some private spots, but never drive after. One? Get an Uber—they're easy.

Fines and Rules Broken

Fines come in four levels from the Interior Ministry. Pay by Absher app, text, or office—no cash right there. Don't pay? Can't leave at borders or airports. Old ones get half off till April 2025.

Level 1 (Small, 2 points):

• Lane change no signal.
• Too close behind.
• No stop at yield.

Level 2 (Medium, 4 points):

• Speed 10-20 over.
• Go through yellow.
• No belt on.

Level 3 (Bad, 6 points, car hold?):

• Speed 21-50 over.
• Wrong direction.
• Phone in hand and drive.
• Too much load.

Level 4 (Big, 12 points, jail/car hold):

• Speed 50+ over.
• Crazy drive (like drifting).
• Leave after the crash.
• No license.

Points clear each year; 24 or more in 12 months? License for 3-12 months. Check Absher: Text "T" to 938.

Help Numbers, Apps, Long Drives

• Help Lines: 993 for police or ambulance, 994 for roads, 997 for fire, 999 for all. Najm at 920000560 for crashes—must tell, or fine.
• Apps: Absher for tickets/license, Google Maps or Waze for jams/cameras, Careem or Uber if needed.
• Desert Trips: Go in groups for far spots; bring a sat phone and water. No dirt roads without okay.
• Expats: Switch to a Saudi license after 90 days (test on Absher).
• Visitors: eVisa lets 90 days to drive; add time at MOI.

One last thing: If the right side is new for you, practice on quiet lots. Roads are safer now with more electric cars—follow the way, and you'll love it.

Ask More About Riyadh Season 2025-26

When does Riyadh Season 2025-26 take place?

The festival begins on 10 October 2025 and runs through to March 2026. This means if you’re planning to visit Riyadh during this period, you’ll have a wide window of entertainment, cultural, and sporting events to pick from.

What kinds of events are included in Riyadh Season?

The season brings together entertainment, culture, sports, live shows, festivals, and exhibitions across multiple zones in Riyadh. For example: large-scale concerts, sports championships, themed zones, family attractions — so whether you’re a tourist or a local, there are many types to choose from.

Where in Riyadh are the event zones located?

Events are spread across several key zones such as Boulevard City, Boulevard World, and other designated entertainment districts. Having a car gives you the flexibility to go from one zone to another without relying only on public transport or even shuttles.

What should foreign visitors know about accessibility and tickets?

Tickets for many events are sold online via official platforms. Some attractions may require prior booking. The official website gives details. Book early, especially for major sports or concert events, because seats fill up fast and prices may rise as the date approaches.

How does the weather affect the season and event planning?

Since the season stretches from October into March, the climate in Riyadh becomes cooler (considered winter for the region), which is more comfortable for outdoor events.For travellers: dress in layers, and plan for possible evening chills.

What are the main benefits of staying mobile (e.g., with a rental car) during the season?

With many zones and spread-out event locations in Riyadh, having a car means:

• You control your schedule and don’t rely solely on shuttles or fixed transport.
• You can combine event days with side-trips around Riyadh (e.g., city outskirts, viewpoints).
• You avoid delays or missing parts of an event because of transport constraints.Being mobile adds flexibility and comfort that enhances the overall festival experience.

Are there any driving or transport-specific tips for Riyadh during the season?

• Traffic can be heavy around major event zones and during peak hours — plan extra travel time.
• Parking at event venues may fill up quickly — arrive early or check official parking arrangements.
• If picking up a rental car, ensure you understand the fuel/return policy and insurance coverage.

What types of travellers are best served by the Riyadh Season event window?

• Foreign tourists: The season offers a rich mix of culture, major global-level sports and entertainment, ideal for combining with a holiday in Riyadh.
• Residents and expats: They can take advantage of easier access to live shows, family attractions, and new experiences without long-haul travel.
• Groups and families: Because of the wide event variety (from concerts to family zones), a rental vehicle helps manage group logistics.How should travellers plan their itinerary around Riyadh Season 2025-26?

A simple approach:

• Day before/arrival: Pick up your car (if renting) and locate your accommodation relative to the main event zones.
• Event days: Schedule your primary event (concert/ sports) in one zone, leave time before/after for relaxed travel or nearby attractions.
• Non-event days: Use your mobility to explore Riyadh’s culture, roads out to scenic spots, or lesser-visited districts.
• Departure day: Return the car early or plan your final zone visit depending on your flight or onward journey.

What are the costs and value considerations for travelling during this season?

• Because this is a major entertainment season, event tickets, local accommodation, and transport demand may push prices higher than off-season.
• By renting a car, you may offset repeated taxi or ride-hail costs, especially for multi-day stays or for group/family travel.
• Booking early (car rental, accommodation, event tickets) tends to give you better value and choice.
• Factor in insurance, parking, fuel/return policy for the rental car, so you know the total cost.In essence, yes, the season is premium, but with good planning (mobility + early booking), you get strong value and experience.

Wrapping Up Your Riyadh Season Drive

Riyadh Season post-November 22 brims with hits—from ringside thrills to starry nights. A rental car, grabbed at RUH or your door, pairs perfectly with 10-20% promos. Book your car rental online now, hit the road, and make memories.