International Driving Permit for Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia drives on the right, with wide modern highways linking cities across vast desert distances and strict, heavily enforced traffic rules. Women have been permitted to drive since 2018, and speed and red-light cameras (the Saher system) issue automatic fines, so compliance matters. Because the local licence is in Arabic, foreign visitors should carry an International Driving Permit with their home licence.
Do you need an IDP to drive in Saudi Arabia?
Tourists and visitors generally need an IDP alongside their national licence to drive in Saudi Arabia, as the national licence is issued in Arabic.
Quick facts
- Driving side
- Right
- Minimum driving age
- 18 years
- Region
- Middle East
- IDP
- Required
Local languages: Arabic
Driving in Saudi Arabia: key facts
- The automated Saher camera network enforces speed and signal violations nationwide with steep fines.
- Saudi Arabia has a zero-tolerance alcohol policy, as alcohol is prohibited countrywide.
- Seatbelts are mandatory, the driving age is 18, and motorway speeds can be high on intercity routes.
How to get your IDP for Saudi Arabia
Getting your International Driving Permit for Saudi Arabia takes only a few minutes:
- 1Apply online
Complete a short application in about 2 minutes — no paperwork or appointments.
- 2Upload your documents
Add a photo of your national driving licence and a passport-style photo.
- 3Get your IDP instantly
Receive your digital International Driving Permit by email, ready to use in Saudi Arabia.
Frequently asked questions about driving in Saudi Arabia
Do I need an IDP to drive in Saudi Arabia?
Yes, tourists and short-term visitors generally need an IDP together with their valid national licence; residents must obtain a Saudi licence.
Can I rent a car in Saudi Arabia with a foreign licence?
Yes, you can rent with a valid foreign licence accompanied by an IDP; rental firms verify both documents before releasing a vehicle.
What side of the road does Saudi Arabia drive on?
Saudi Arabia drives on the right-hand side of the road.
What is the minimum age to drive in Saudi Arabia?
The minimum driving age is 18, and most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21, sometimes 25 for certain vehicle classes.
Other countries in Middle East
International Driving Permit for Saudi Arabia
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