Transport and Driving in Saudi Arabia

Much to the expat woman's chagrin, driving in Saudi Arabia is a right granted only to men. Woman can buy a car, but they cannot operate it.

In the KSA driving is done on the right hand side of the road and right hand turns on red are permitted.

Traffic circles are present throughout major cities and towns; however, the “right-of-way” rule for those inside the circle is not adhered to, with cars coming into the circle at full speed.

Drivers should also be aware that left turns are typically only allowed at traffic lights or at designated “U-Turns”, as medians are present on major streets.

Common traffic rules, including lights and posted signs, are seemingly optional in the helter skelter of the Saudi driving environment. 

Drivers operate at high speeds, blinkers are not commonly used, and cars will make left hand turns out of the right lane. 

Expats driving in Saudi Arabia should do so defensively, and keep their eyes open at all times. The driving in the major metro areas may be more aggressive than many expats are used to. Be aware of shababs (teens and young men) ‘stunt driving’, drifting or generally behaving recklessly.

There is an increasing use of traffic cameras both in the city and on the highway to try and deter running red lights and speeding. Additionally, many streets have speed bumps to deter this activity as well. If you are caught breaking the law, you may not know it. Check the government website frequently for tickets.

Remember, you can’t depart the country if you have any unpaid fines!