Saudi Arabia, renowned for its vast landscapes and stunning deserts, welcomes foreigners to explore its extensive roads and impressive infrastructure. The country is not only famous for its massive arrangements to welcome Muslims for pilgrimages, but it has also opened its doors to international tourists. For expats and tourists planning to visit Saudi Arabia, renting a car is the best option for traveling across the country.
While Saudi Arabia offers public transport and an easy commute for individuals, it also provides a plethora of rental options for those who prefer the comfort and convenience of their own vehicle. Renting a car is a straightforward process, ensuring a hassle-free experience for your travel needs. If you’re considering renting a car in Saudi Arabia, take a moment to read through our blog, effortlessly book a vehicle, and enjoy the freedom of exploring the country at your own pace.
Steps to Rent a Car in Saudi Arabia
Follow the steps to ensure a hassle-free car rental experience and enjoy your trip. From selecting the car rental company to preparing the documents, ensure you don’t miss out on any vital information.
Prepare the Documents
- A valid driving license or an international driving permit.
- Residence visa
- Passport copy
- A credit card to cover any damage
- Mobile number registered with Absher
Previously, only males were allowed to rent a car in Saudi Arabia. However, in 2018, it became possible for women to drive and rent cars in Saudi Arabia. A testament to the country’s commitment to gender equality. This means that a single female can now drive without a male guardian, and you can even find and hire female drivers in KSA. This progressive step is not only inspiring but also makes exploring the country more accessible for all.
Choose a Car Rental Company
When it comes to choosing a rental company in Saudi Arabia, thorough research is key. The Kingdom offers a multitude of rental companies in almost all the big cities. Hence, choose a company that suits your travel needs and preferences. It is recommended that you book a car from a rental company online rather than from local vendors.
The following are some of the most popular car rental companies in KSA.
- Hertz
- Budget
- National Car Rental
- Yelo
- Keys
- Sixt
You can choose from any of these companies and select the vehicle that falls within your budget. For your information, Hertz, Budget, and Sixt are international rental companies that provide a wide variety of cars in different price ranges.
National Car Rental, Yelo, and Keys are some local companies that also offer a diverse range of options and deals, but are generally less expensive compared to international car rental companies. Each has its benefits and drawbacks, so it’s essential to be vigilant when choosing a company that suits your travel needs.
Factors to Consider When Renting a Car
Several factors should be considered, including budget, car model type, rental duration, and overall services and car rental policies.
Set a Budget
Setting a budget is the most essential step in renting a car. You need to consider the cost of the vehicle, additional fees, fuel costs, and the season you plan to visit Saudi Arabia. Therefore, it is essential to evaluate the rental costs of a vehicle and compare the offers of different companies to make an informed decision.
Choose a Car
Once the budget is set, you can select a car that suits your travel needs. Whether you’re planning a city drive or an off-road adventure, choose the vehicle that best suits your needs. If you want a luxurious experience in KSA, opt for a high-end car; otherwise, a simple subcompact vehicle would be a good enough option for a family at an affordable price.
Car Rental Period
The total cost of renting a vehicle also depends on the rental period. The longer you rent a car, the cheaper the daily rate. If you plan to rent for an extended period, you can also opt to pay rent on a monthly basis.
Mileage
Every car rental company has a specified mileage limit that you must adhere to during your rental period. Most companies in Saudi Arabia provide a daily mileage limit of 200 km to 250 km for drivers, which is a considerable amount that allows for easy mileage management. However, if you exceed the mileage limit provided by your rental company, you will be charged an additional fee upon returning the vehicle.
Season
The season is also a significant factor to consider. During peak seasons, such as October to March, the cost of car rental is higher than in other times of the year. Therefore, plan your trip to KSA accordingly.
Insurance Policy
Another essential factor to consider is vehicle insurance. It is necessary to have your rental car insured for a smooth and secure trip. In the event of any damage, the insurance will cover the associated expenses. Therefore, ensure that you verify what is included in your insurance coverage and what will be charged for any damage.
Car Inspection
Before finalizing the deal, thoroughly inspect the vehicle you are renting. Record videos and take pictures of the car from every angle as proof before taking possession of the vehicle from the company. Notice all the scratches, bumps, and dents already present on the car. Doing so will help you provide evidence if the company claims any damage to the vehicle upon its return.
Sign the Agreement
After selecting the car and rental company, sign the agreement by thoroughly reviewing the rules and guidelines provided in the contract. Now, you are ready to explore the state and move freely across the Kingdom. Additionally, if you are a tourist, you can also mention the drop-off location for your convenience.
Note: Car rates typically start at SAR 100 for the most affordable cars and increase to SAR 1,000 per day for modern and luxury vehicles.
Conclusion
Ultimately, renting a car is the best option if you plan to travel around the country. It is advisable to rent a car online in advance to avoid hassle and to take advantage of discounted offers. By following the guide and considering the factors mentioned above, we hope you are ready to choose the car that fits your budget and enjoy the ride.
