Transports in Saudi Arabia
If you have decided to settle in Saudi Arabia, then you will need to find a way of getting around. Until recently, Saudi Arabia was the only country where women were not permitted to drive, but in June 2018, women became legally authorized to drive throughout the Kingdom.
That may make things a bit easier for female expats looking to live and work in Saudi Arabia. Expat women who want to drive in Saudi Arabia can now approach the authorities to obtain a Saudi driving license. For those wishing to take driving lessons here, note that the courses for women are still rather expensive and there are only a few driving schools.
Taxi in Saudi Arabia
Taxis are aplenty in Saudi Arabia. All major cities have thousands of taxis ready to get you from point A to point B. Unlike in most other countries, Saudi Arabian taxis are privately owned and operated yet registered with a regulatory company. They are very safe, and all taxicabs are equipped with a fare meter. You will also find an operator number and picture of the driver in each cab to ensure their quality and compliance with existing rules.
Taxis are often found at busy locations, malls, supermarkets, parks, etc. To hail a cab, you just need to wave at them in the streets. The taxi company now has its own app, simply called Taxi - أجرة.
To avoid any confusion, it is a good idea to have your address ready including the nearby landmarks. Nowadays, it is recommended to show your destination on Google Maps. Some taxi drivers outside of the major cities may not speak English, so don't be shy to ask whether or not they understand and know where the destination is beforehand.
Uber/Careem in Saudi Arabia
Popular transport apps are available in Saudi Arabia. Expats tend to use Uber or Careem rather than regular taxis. Simply downloading the app and registering for the service will allow you to request licensed drivers to assist you with your travel needs. All major cities have been introduced to these services, which have recently become the most popular form of travel in Saudi Arabia (especially amongst women). The service is entirely safe, and all the drivers are registered. As fares vary greatly for each ride, it can be a good idea to use both and compare the rates you can get at a certain time.
Since the decades-long ban on women driving was lifted, exclusive female taxi services began to operate for the convenience of Uber and Careem female clients.
Note that while Uber and Careem are the most popular, there are several other ride-sharing apps, such as Jeeny or Kaiian, while KDDAD is a similar app but to travel long rides between different cities.
Important:
Because both apps pre-determine the cost of the trip, haggling and language barriers are not an issue. Additionally, the use of GPS allows for accurate destination locations, and there's no need to worry about directions.
Trains in Saudi Arabia
Train travel in Saudi Arabia is relatively limited—but the railway system is developing, and more rail lines may be added in the near future.
There were previously two railway companies (Saudi Railway Company and Saudi Railways Organization). In 2021, they were merged into Saudi Arabia Railways. The SAR operates three routes:
- Riyadh-Qurayyat Line (North Train - with night trains available between Riyadh, Al Majma'ah, Al-Qassim, Ḥaʼil, Sakākā and Qurayyat.
- Intercity line connecting Riyadh, Hofuf, Abqaiq and Dammam (East Train)
- A high-speed line connecting Mecca, Jeddah, Rabigh and Medina (West Line)
Note that the train station in Mecca is not accessible to non-Muslim travelers. However, non-Muslim visitors can access the train station in Medina as it is located outside central Medina.
Important:
Foreigners in Saudi Arabia will have to produce their Iqama to be authorized to travel by train. Note that booking is required (at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled travel date) to secure a seat. Tickets have to be purchased at least three hours before the time of departure. Otherwise, rates will be increased by 10%.
Good to know:
Boarding a train in Saudi Arabia is quite similar to boarding a flight. Your luggage will have to be subjected to an X-ray scan, and the local police will verify your travel documents. Make sure to reach the train station at least one hour in advance, especially because train doors close five minutes before departure.
Buses in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Coach Bus (SAPTCO) operates countrywide, connecting smaller towns/villages to bigger cities. Coach bus destinations include all major cities such as Mecca, Riyadh, Gaseem, Hail, Jeddah, Madinah, Tabuk, Taif, Abha and Dammam. Note that most buses are equipped with air conditioning and a toilet.
Some routes have first-class coach buses available. They are slightly more expensive than regular buses but provide extra amenities. They include extra legroom, a meal, and comfortable seating.
Warning:
Due to the very conservative society, it is advisable for women traveling alone to do so during day hours and limit solo nighttime travel as much as possible.
If you feel like the driver is unaware of the destination, is lost, and/or prolonging the trip, demand to be stopped and get out. Take note of the operator's number and name in case needed.
Planes in Saudi Arabia
The national carriers Saudia and Flynas, the domestic and international low-cost airlines, are offering plenty of flights inside the country every day. The new company, Riyadh Air, launched by the Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in 2023 is expected to launch its first commercial flights in 2025.
Important:
Traveling in Saudi Arabia is relatively safe. However, make sure to check the current restrictions before heading to the Najran border in Yemen.
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