Cars dominate, but rideshares, metros, and intercity rail are transforming how expats get around. Here's everything you need to know about transport in the Kingdom.
Saudi Arabia is a car-centric country, but cities are investing heavily in public transport. Here are your main options.
The most common choice for expats. Petrol is cheap (SAR 0.98–1.30/litre), roads are good, and parking is widely available in compounds and malls.
Petrol ~SAR 1/litreWidely available in Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam. Reliable, air-conditioned, and often the easiest option without a local driving licence.
SAR 10–40 for city tripsOpened in 2024, 6 lines covering 176 km. Fast, clean, and modern. Connects KAFD, King Abdullah Financial District, and major residential areas.
SAR 4–12 per journeyExpanding bus network integrated with the metro. Naqd app for journey planning. Less useful for expats outside central areas but improving fast.
SAR 4 flat fareSaudi Railways connects Riyadh to Dammam (4.5 hrs), Qassim, Hail, and Madinah. The Haramain High-Speed Railway links Makkah, Madinah, and Jeddah.
SAR 50–200 intercitySaudia, flynas, and Flyadeal connect all major cities. Riyadh–Jeddah flights run almost hourly. Often faster and similarly priced to train for longer routes.
SAR 100–350 one wayMost expats from Western countries can convert their home driving licence directly without a driving test. Nationals from some countries must take the full Saudi test.
| Country Group | Process | Time |
|---|---|---|
| US, UK, EU, Canada, Australia | Direct conversion, no test | 1–3 days |
| GCC nationals | Direct conversion | Same day |
| Most Arab countries | Eye test + theory test | 1–2 weeks |
| Other nationalities | Full driving test required | 2–8 weeks |
Valid Iqama, original foreign driving licence, passport copy, 2 photos, translated licence (if not in Arabic/English), and completed application form from nearest traffic department (Muroor).
City roads: 60–80 km/h. Highways: 110–120 km/h. Speed cameras are everywhere and fines are automatic via your Absher account. Fines can be paid online.
Third-party insurance is mandatory. Comprehensive cover is strongly recommended. Compare via Tameeni.com. Annual premiums range SAR 800–3,000 depending on car and age.
Petrol stations are abundant. Unleaded 91 (SAR 0.98/litre) and 95 (SAR 1.18/litre). Most stations are self-serve. Payment by card or app increasingly available.
Saudi Arabia's automated traffic monitoring system. Camera-detected violations (speeding, running red lights) are linked to your Iqama number and fines issued via Absher.
Most spread-out city. A car or Uber is essential outside the metro catchment. Metro covers KAFD, Al Olaya, and central areas well. Traffic is heavy 7–9am and 5–8pm.
No metro yet (under construction). Uber and Careem are very popular. The Corniche and city centre are walkable. Bus network exists but infrequent. Car strongly recommended.
Smaller and more manageable than Riyadh or Jeddah. Uber available. Train connects to Riyadh. The King Fahd Causeway links to Bahrain — a popular weekend trip for expats.
From Uber to metro ticketing and parking payment — download these before you arrive. Our full apps guide has everything you need.
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