Saudi Arabia Sets 1-Year Limit For Foreign Drivers Using International Licences
According to the authority, visitors may use an international or foreign licence to drive in the Kingdom for up to one year from their date of entry, or until the licence expires — whichever comes first.
One key condition is that the licence must correspond to the category of the vehicle being driven. In addition, all foreign licences must be translated by an accredited body to ensure the accuracy and clarity of information.
However, these rules do not apply to citizens of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.
For GCC residents, the Traffic Department confirmed that they may drive in Saudi Arabia using a valid licence issued in their home country, without requiring a temporary Saudi licence. They can continue to use that licence for its full validity period.
That said, the authority clarified that international driving permits issued within GCC countries are not valid for cross-border driving within GCC states, including in Saudi Arabia.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Daily Tribune
4 hours ago
- Daily Tribune
Norwegian Cruise Line Offers GCC Travelers a Relaxed, Authentic Way to Explore Europe
As European summer travel becomes more crowded and expensive, Norwegian Cruise Line® (NCL) is offering a refreshing alternative — a more relaxed, flexible, and value-packed way to experience Europe through its cruise itineraries. Recognized as the Middle East's Leading Cruise Line for three years in a row, NCL is seeing a growing trend among GCC travelers who are choosing to explore Europe during the quieter "shoulder seasons" — spring and early autumn. These months offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and a more authentic experience in Europe's most iconic destinations. Instead of rushing through busy airports and crowded city centers, NCL passengers can enjoy a calm and immersive journey across the Mediterranean and Northern Europe, all while unpacking just once. In 2025 and 2026, the cruise line will offer more than 160 voyages during the shoulder season, with trips lasting from 7 to 15 days and stopping in breathtaking ports across Greece, Italy, Spain, France, Turkey, Norway, Iceland, and more. Passengers can embark from popular European cities like Athens, Barcelona, Rome, and Lisbon, with itineraries featuring longer port stays — including overnight stops in destinations like Istanbul. These extended visits give travelers time to soak in golden sunsets in Santorini, wander through Tuscany's rolling countryside, or uncover hidden gems without the pressure of tight schedules. NCL's 'More' Philosophy: Travel That Feels Personal At the core of Norwegian Cruise Line's offering is a promise to give guests more of what they value: More freedom and space onboard – Whether it's starting the day with a spa treatment, enjoying open-air dining, or racing go-karts on deck, guests can shape their own pace. More dining and entertainment options – With no fixed schedules, passengers can enjoy modern global cuisine, live music, and some of the best entertainment at sea, all on their own terms. More time in port – Longer stops mean deeper cultural experiences and time to truly connect with each destination. More value – With the new More At Sea™ upgrade, travelers can enjoy perks like specialty dining, unlimited open bar, Starlink-powered high-speed Wi-Fi, and more — all included. With its unique approach, NCL is making European travel not just easier, but more meaningful — inviting GCC travelers to explore at their own pace, on their own terms.
Gulf Insider
a day ago
- Gulf Insider
Saudi Arabia Sets 1-Year Limit For Foreign Drivers Using International Licences
The General Directorate of Traffic in Saudi Arabia has issued new clarifications regarding the conditions under which foreign visitors may drive using international or foreign driving licences. According to the authority, visitors may use an international or foreign licence to drive in the Kingdom for up to one year from their date of entry, or until the licence expires — whichever comes first. One key condition is that the licence must correspond to the category of the vehicle being driven. In addition, all foreign licences must be translated by an accredited body to ensure the accuracy and clarity of information. However, these rules do not apply to citizens of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. For GCC residents, the Traffic Department confirmed that they may drive in Saudi Arabia using a valid licence issued in their home country, without requiring a temporary Saudi licence. They can continue to use that licence for its full validity period. That said, the authority clarified that international driving permits issued within GCC countries are not valid for cross-border driving within GCC states, including in Saudi Arabia.
Gulf Insider
2 days ago
- Gulf Insider
No passport, Wrong Flight: Pakistani Passenger Mistakenly Flies To Saudi Arabia
In a shocking turn of events, a Pakistani man scheduled to fly from Lahore to Karachi ended up in Saudi Arabia after mistakenly boarding a flight to Jeddah, according to media reports. The incident has prompted serious concerns about airline procedures and airport immigration checks. The traveller, identified as Malik Shahzain Ahmed, was flying via the private airline Air Sial. He reportedly boarded the wrong aircraft on July 8 from Lahore airport. In a video statement, Ahmed said he only realised the mistake two hours into the journey when it became clear the flight was headed overseas. 'I asked myself, 'This plane doesn't seem to be landing soon.' That's when I realised I had boarded the wrong plane,' he said in the video. To make matters worse, Ahmed was not carrying a passport during the international flight. Upon landing at Jeddah Airport, Saudi immigration authorities briefly detained and questioned him before deporting him back to Lahore after the misunderstanding was clarified. Ahmed claimed that the airline had since refused to arrange onward travel to Karachi, allegedly asking him to purchase a new ticket despite the error. The Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) confirmed the incident and has held the airline responsible for the security lapse. In a statement, PAA spokesperson Saifullah said that higher officials had taken notice and written to the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), urging them to impose a 'heavy fine' on the airline for its negligence. Despite repeated questions, authorities have yet to explain how Ahmed managed to clear immigration and board an international flight without valid travel documents. The PAA has promised to review and strengthen its protocols to prevent such incidents in the future. The case has sparked widespread criticism of airport and airline procedures, particularly around passenger verification and immigration checks. Ahmed's case is now being cited as a serious example of systemic failure that could have had far graver consequences had Saudi authorities not handled the situation calmly.
