Car Rental in Saudi Arabia

If you have the necessary driving license, you can rent a car in Saudi Arabia. The following papers must be shown in order to rent a car in KSA.

• Copy of your original passport
• Copy of your Visa
• International Driving Permit
• A license that is issued by your home country
• A valid credit card for a security deposit

In Saudi Arabia, a car rental would typically cost $46 per day. However, booking a car rental in Saudi Arabia is a great way to explore the country and see the sights, but it can also be an expensive venture. If you're looking for a way to avoid paying the average rental cost, consider booking with Finalrentals instead! We offer cheap car rentals at the lowest prices available anywhere in Saudi Arabia. You'll get the same quality service you get at any other rental company—but at prices that are almost half of what you'd pay elsewhere.

For up to three months, you can drive in Saudi Arabia with an international driving permit and some national licenses; after that, you'll require a Saudi permit.

An economy car is the most popular car rental in Saudi Arabia. The economy car is the most common model of car in Saudi Arabia and there are many different types of economy cars. Economy vehicles are very simple, cheap, and affordable. This type of car is used by people who want to save money on their daily expenses, they don't have a lot of money and they want to travel around the city in a comfortable way.

You have to be at least 25 years old to rent a car in Saudi Arabia. Also, you should have had your license for at least a year if you want to rent a car in KSA. If the driver is under 25 then it is possible that you’ll be charged an additional fee. Moreover, before you decide you rent a car here you must also show an International Driver’s Permit and your passport. It is important for you to have your driver’s license and proof of insurance with you all the time.

Foreigners can rent a car in Saudi Arabia. To do so, you need a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) and your home country’s driver’s license. You must also present your passport and visa for verification.

Renting a car in Saudi Arabia requires being at least 21 years old and possessing a valid driving license, often with a minimum holding period (e.g., 1-2 years). An International Driving Permit is mandatory for tourists. Credit cards are needed for deposits, and some rental companies may restrict certain car types for younger drivers.

Tourists on valid visas can rent cars in Saudi Arabia. Along with your visa, you must have a valid International Driving Permit and a passport for identification. Rental agencies at international airports and city centres cater to tourists, providing vehicles suited for both city drives and desert exploration.

Car rental costs in Saudi Arabia vary based on vehicle type, rental duration, and season. For example, a compact car may cost $30–50 per day, while luxury cars cost around SAR 500 ($133) daily. Weekly car rentals offer discounts, averaging around $200–300 per week. Prices peak during the Hajj and Umrah seasons, so booking early is recommended for affordable deals.

For standard vehicles, renting a car for a month in Saudi Arabia typically costs $800–1,000 per month. The rates depend on the car model, season, and provider. Compact cars offer lower rates, while SUVs or luxury cars cost significantly more. Monthly rentals often include better discounts and additional benefits, such as free mileage or insurance, making them ideal for extended stays or work trips.

The most popular rental cars in Saudi Arabia include compact sedans like the Toyota Corolla and Hyundai Elantra, ideal for city drives, and SUVs like the Toyota Prado and Nissan Patrol for desert trips. Travellers also prefer luxury cars, such as the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, for business or leisure purposes. The choice largely depends on budget and travel needs, with SUVs best suited for off-road adventures.

Driving in Saudi Arabia is generally smooth, with well-maintained highways connecting major cities. However, traffic in urban centres like Riyadh can be heavy, especially during rush hours. Drivers should adhere to strict road rules, including speed limits and parking regulations. Highways often have checkpoints, and it's essential to carry your driving documents at all times. Desert areas require a four-wheel-drive vehicle, as standard cars may struggle with the terrain.

Basic insurance, such as a Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), is usually included in car rental packages in Saudi Arabia. This covers partial damage to the vehicle but often excludes personal liability or theft. Additional coverage, like comprehensive insurance or personal accident protection, can be purchased for SAR 20–50 ($5–13) daily. Always confirm the details of the included insurance before booking to avoid unexpected costs.

Yes, foreign tourists can drive rental cars in Saudi Arabia using their home country’s license, provided they also carry an International Driving Permit (IDP). Temporary visitors can drive for up to 90 days, while foreign residents must obtain a Saudi driver’s license. Ensure your license and IDP are valid throughout your rental period and keep them accessible during your travels.

With a rental car, you can explore iconic locations like Riyadh’s Kingdom Centre, Jeddah’s Corniche, and the ancient ruins of Al-Ula. Visit the Red Sea coast for beaches in Yanbu or drive to the stunning sand dunes near Rub’ al Khali. A rental car offers the freedom to visit remote cultural and natural attractions at your own pace, making it an essential choice for adventurers.

Speed limits in Saudi Arabia vary from 40 km/h (25 mph) in residential areas to 80 km/h (50 mph) on suburban roads and 120 km/h (75 mph) on highways. Near schools or high-traffic zones, the limit is 30 km/h (18 mph). Automated speed cameras monitor compliance, and penalties for violations are strict, so it’s important to stay vigilant.

Fuel prices in Saudi Arabia are among the lowest globally, with regular petrol costing around SAR 2.33 ($0.62) per litre as of recent updates. Premium fuel and diesel are slightly more expensive. Prices are subject to government adjustments but remain affordable compared to international standards, making driving a rental car highly economical.

Major airports like King Khalid International Airport (Riyadh), King Abdulaziz International Airport (Jeddah), and King Fahd International Airport (Dammam) are the most convenient rental locations. City centres and popular tourist hubs also offer pick-up options. Choosing airport locations is ideal for seamless travel right after arrival.

It’s best to book your car rental in Saudi Arabia at least 2–4 weeks in advance, especially during Hajj, Umrah, or peak tourist seasons (November to February). Early booking ensures availability, better rates, and access to specific vehicle types. Last-minute bookings may lead to higher costs or limited options, particularly at busy locations like Riyadh or Jeddah airports.