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For pilgrims seeking a more personalised and flexible Umrah journey, the dream of driving your family from the holy city of Makkah to the enlightened city of Madinah is now a tangible reality. New clarifications from Saudi Arabia's General Directorate of Traffic, coupled with readily available car rental services, open up exciting possibilities for foreign visitors wishing to navigate their spiritual journey on their own terms.
Traditionally, many Umrah pilgrims rely on pre-arranged transportation. However, the ability to rent a car and drive offers unparalleled freedom to explore sacred sites at your own pace, accommodate family needs, and discover the Kingdom's rich heritage beyond the usual routes.
Driving in Saudi Arabia as a Foreign Visitor: What You Need to Know
The Saudi Arabian authorities have made it clearer than ever for foreign visitors to drive within the Kingdom. Visitors can use a valid international or foreign driving licence for up to one year from their date of entry into Saudi Arabia, or until their licence expires, whichever comes first. This provides ample time for an Umrah pilgrimage and extended exploration. It is crucial to ensure your foreign licence corresponds to the category of the vehicle you intend to drive; for instance, a family car requires a licence that permits you to drive such a vehicle. Furthermore, all foreign driving licences must be translated by an accredited body to verify authenticity and provide clarity for local authorities and rental agencies.
Citizens of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries enjoy a special exemption, able to drive in Saudi Arabia using their valid national licence for its full validity period without needing a temporary Saudi licence. However, it's important to note that international driving permits issued within GCC countries are not valid for cross-border driving within GCC states, including Saudi Arabia.
How to Get a Car to Drive in Saudi Arabia
Renting a car in Saudi Arabia is a straightforward process, with numerous reputable international and local car rental companies operating across the Kingdom, including Makkah and Madinah.
To rent a car, you will typically need your original valid passport, your valid national driving licence, and an International Driving Permit (IDP) – which is highly recommended and often mandatory, especially if your national licence is not in English or Arabic. For UK residents, an IDP can be obtained in person from certain shops with PayPoint, costing £5.50. You must live in Great Britain or Northern Ireland, have a full UK driving licence, and be 18 or over. A valid credit card in the driver's name is also essential for securing the rental and covering the security deposit, as debit cards are generally not accepted for this purpose. Proof of insurance is also required, which some rental companies include, while others may require you to have your own or purchase theirs.
Most car rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with some having higher age limits for premium or larger vehicles, and additional charges may apply for drivers under 25. You can book your rental car in advance online or directly at major airports and city locations. Reputable car rental brands with presences in Makkah and Madinah include Avis, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Hertz, Sixt, Budget, Europcar, Lumi, and Hanco. Many of these companies have branches at King Abdulaziz International Airport (Jeddah), a common entry point for Umrah pilgrims, and also in Makkah and Madinah city centers and their respective airports (Prince Mohammed Bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Madinah).
When considering your rental, be aware that some companies may have daily mileage limits, so if you plan extensive travel, discuss unlimited mileage options. Understand the fuel policy (e.g., full-to-full or full-to-empty) and familiarise yourself with Saudi Arabian traffic laws, including speed limits, mandatory seat belt regulations for all occupants, and the strict prohibition of mobile phone use while driving. Speed cameras are common. Roads between Makkah and Madinah are generally well-maintained highways, making the drive relatively comfortable.
A New Chapter for Umrah Pilgrims
The ability to self-drive for Umrah marks a significant evolution in pilgrimage travel, offering flexibility and personal freedom previously less accessible. For families and individuals who value independence and the opportunity to tailor their spiritual journey, renting a car presents an attractive and practical option, allowing them to truly experience the sacred landscapes of Saudi Arabia at their own pace.
