Saudi Arabia sets one-year limit for foreign drivers using international licences

The General Directorate of Traffic in Saudi Arabia has announced new conditions for foreign visitors driving in the Kingdom using international or foreign driving licences. Under the updated rules, visitors can drive for a maximum of one year from their date of entry, or until their foreign licence expires, whichever occurs first, as reported by Gulf News.

The announcement clarifies how long international visitors can use their home country licences before needing to obtain a Saudi driving permit. The licence must also match the vehicle category being driven in the Kingdom.

Additionally, all foreign or international licences must be translated by an accredited body to ensure that the information is clear and accurate. Authorities emphasised that translation is essential for verifying the licence’s authenticity and details.

These new regulations apply only to non-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nationals. As reported by Gulf News, the Traffic Department has confirmed that GCC residents are exempt from these conditions. Citizens of GCC countries may drive in Saudi Arabia using a valid driving licence issued in their own country, and they do not need to obtain a separate temporary Saudi licence. They can use their national licence for its entire validity period.

However, the Traffic Directorate also made it clear that international driving permits issued within GCC countries cannot be used for cross-border driving within the Gulf region, including in Saudi Arabia.

The changes are part of an effort to streamline road safety regulations and ensure that all drivers are operating vehicles with proper documentation. The rule applies to all foreign visitors, including tourists, business travellers, and short-term residents, except those who fall under the GCC exception.

The updated guidelines also serve as a reminder for foreign nationals planning to drive in Saudi Arabia to check the validity, translation status, and vehicle category compliance of their licence before travelling.