As Riyadh is the biggest city and the capital of Saudi Arabia, it is normally crowded with many tourists visiting it. The city is filled with sprawling landmarks and interesting attractions that have a lot to offer to thrill seekers and tourists alike. When you arrive in Riyadh, the first thing you need to do is rent a car in Riyadh to enjoy the freedom that comes with having your own vehicle. This way, you get to visit places that even public transportation systems are restricted from. In order not to have complications, here is a guide of what you need to know before renting a car in this glorious city.
- Familiarize yourself with the local driving rules and etiquette: Before renting a car, familiarize yourself with the driving regulations in Saudi Arabia. In Riyadh, right-hand traffic is used, and only those above 18 can drive legally. Speed limits in Riyadh are tightly observed, using cameras along almost every road. The regular speed limit on urban roads is 50–80 kph, while on highways, this goes up to 100–120 kph..
- Choose an appropriate car rental company: Indeed, it really matters which kind of car rental company you choose. There are several international brands operating in Riyadh, such as OneClickDrive, supplemented by reliable local providers. Check their online reviews and compare rates to find an option that fits your budget and needs.
- Bring the Necessary Documents: To opt for monthly rent a car in Riyadh, there are certain documents that one will be requiring, which often include:
- A valid driver’s license: Most car rental firms, if you are an international traveler, do accept licenses issued in most countries. It is, however, highly recommended to carry with you an International Driving Permit, for added convenience and legal clarity.
- A passport or national ID card will mostly be required for verification purposes.
- Credit Card: Most car renting companies require that the mode of payment and any security deposit to be by credit card.
Ensure that your documents are current and accessible to you to avoid any inconvenience in the booking process.
- Understand what insurance options are being offered by the rental company: Basic insurance is usually included in the rental fee and will cover third-party liability. However, this may not protect you against damage to the rental car or theft. You can save yourself from a lot of unnecessary expenses by opting for comprehensive coverage, including CDW. Check your travel insurance policy; you might already be covered for car rentals. Also, inquire about any other fees that may be tacked on, such as for roadside assistance or broken windshields.
- Choose the right car: The topography and road conditions in Riyadh would determine your vehicle choice. In most in-city journeys, a compact or mid-size car would do, since these allow access to crowded streets and small parking lots easily. For any desert or further suburb trips, it’s better to rent an SUV for off-road capability and comfort. Ensure it has installed all the modern safety features, GPS navigation, and air conditioning to offer driving comfort under extreme weather conditions in Riyadh.
- Plan your routes in advance: There are a lot of roads in Riyadh, and it may confuse a newcomer. Unless, of course, you have navigation tools like Google Maps or Waze to help you avoid congested parts of the city, getting to a place can take really long. It is also useful to learn key Arabic words for road signs, as you will come across a lot of symbols that are written only in the Arabic language.
- Check the vehicle carefully: Before driving off, check the car for any existing damages; ensure they are noted in the rental agreement. Take pictures of scratches, dents, or any other problems to avoid disputes when returning the car. The essential features that must be in good shape include headlights, brakes, and tires.
- Be prepared to deal with emergency situations: Even with the best-laid plans, there do arise cases of emergencies. Keep the details of the company you rented your vehicle from, alongside a list of numbers in emergencies. The helpline number during an emergency is 911 in Saudi Arabia.
Conclusion
Renting a car in Riyadh is quite convenient and satisfactory as it will afford you more freedom to cruise around the town and its environs at will. With the following tips, you will be definitely ready to go for a safe and delightful journey in Saudi Arabia’s vibrant capital.