The good news is that you can use your UAE driver’s licence to drive in Saudi Arabia while you’re there if you’re a resident of the UAE and want to travel there. To make moving around easier, you can also rent a car.
To ensure your safety and compliance with all laws, it is crucial to be able to interpret road signs and traverse unfamiliar terrain when visiting a new nation.
Look for the kilometre limit when renting a car
The official tourism website of Saudi Arabia, Visit Saudi, notes that it’s important to understand that many rental cars have a daily kilometre driving limit. “Before renting your car, determine how much and how far you will be driving, then look to see which rental car agreement best fits your needs,” stated, the website.
If you want to drive large distances, you may also be able to add an “open kilometres service” option to your contract.
5 top tips for driving in Saudi Arabia
- Be respectful and avoid from playing music in your rental automobile when the call to prayer is being heard.
- Due to the size of Saudi Arabia, you need constantly refill to prevent running out of fuel.
- Speed bumps or cameras are usually ahead when the cars in front of you turn on their emergency or danger lights. If you see them, go more slowly.
- Since Arabic speed limit signs frequently use this language, it is advisable to memorise or learn numbers 1 through 10. (or print out a chart to keep in your car for reference).
- Before you travel, familiarise yourself with some of the standard traffic signs in addition to becoming familiar with Arabic numerals.
Road signage in Saudi Arabia – colours and shapes
Red signs are typically intended to be prohibitions, warning you to halt, not enter, or to go in the opposite direction.
- Green signs are used to indicate special information about a street.
- Brown signs frequently direct people to tourist, entertainment, or cultural destinations.
- Whiteboards are frequently used to mark important locations, such as downtown or hospitals.
- Signs with an octagon shape indicate a stop.
- Signs with a diamond shape are typically used to warn of hazards or danger.
Also Read: How to create an Absher account if you are travelling to Saudi Arabia?