Driving in Saudi Arabia: Foreign License Rules for Visitors

Saudi Arabia, a nation known for its rich cultural heritage and rapidly growing tourism sector, has been actively working to attract more visitors from around the globe. One of the measures implemented to facilitate tourism and ease the experience for international travelers is allowing visitors to use their foreign driving licenses within the Kingdom. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to make travel within Saudi Arabia more accessible and convenient, aligning with the goals of Vision 2030, a comprehensive plan to diversify the Saudi economy and reduce its dependence on oil.

Use of Foreign Driving Licenses in Saudi Arabia

The Saudi Arabian traffic department, known as Moroor, clarified the rules regarding the use of foreign driving licenses in the Kingdom in response to a query on X (formerly Twitter). A user inquired if Umrah visa holders could drive in Saudi Arabia using a valid foreign driving license. Moroor responded that visitors could indeed use an international driving license or a valid foreign driving license for a period of up to one year from their date of entry into the Kingdom. This provision also holds as long as the license remains valid and unexpired during this period.

The clarification from Moroor highlighted that the allowance is not limited to Umrah visa holders but extends to all visitors to Saudi Arabia. This decision significantly benefits tourists, business travelers, and expatriates visiting family, enabling them to drive and explore the country more freely without the immediate need to obtain a local driving license.

Understanding the Requirements

While the allowance to use a foreign driving license provides significant convenience, it is essential for visitors to be aware of the specific requirements and limitations:

1. International vs. Foreign Driving License: There is a distinction between an international driving license (IDL) and a foreign driving license. An IDL is a translation of a foreign driving license and is usually required when traveling internationally. Saudi authorities accept both IDL and a valid foreign driving license, provided the licenses are recognized and issued by the visitor’s home country.

2. Validity Period: The foreign or international driving license can be used for up to one year from the date of the visitor’s entry into Saudi Arabia. However, if the license expires within this period, the visitor must renew it to continue driving legally.

3. Local Regulations Compliance: While using a foreign driving license, visitors must comply with Saudi Arabia’s traffic laws and regulations. Violations of local traffic rules could result in penalties, fines, or the suspension of driving privileges within the Kingdom.

4. Vehicle Insurance: Visitors must ensure that they have valid vehicle insurance that covers them while driving in Saudi Arabia. Driving without insurance is illegal and can result in severe consequences, including hefty fines and legal action.

5. Type of Vehicle: The foreign driving license should correspond to the type of vehicle the visitor intends to drive. For instance, a license for passenger vehicles does not authorize driving a motorcycle or a heavy-duty vehicle unless explicitly stated on the license.

Temporary Use of Foreign Licenses for Hired Drivers

Similarly, Saudi Arabia’s traffic authorities recently clarified that individuals hired from abroad to work as drivers are also permitted to use their foreign driving licenses temporarily. According to the Saudi General Traffic Department, these foreign drivers can utilize their home country licenses for up to three months after their arrival in the Kingdom. However, there are specific conditions that must be met: the foreign driving license must be translated by an accredited translation agency, ensuring that it is understood and recognized by local authorities. Additionally, the type of license must match the category of the vehicle being driven, ensuring that the driver is qualified to operate the specific type of vehicle they are employed to drive. This policy offers a practical solution for foreign drivers transitioning into their new roles while they work on obtaining the necessary Saudi driving credentials.

Further Reading: How to Obtain a Driving License in Saudi Arabia