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Want to Experience Saudi Like a Local? Hit the Road!
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Saudi is like a treasure chest that keeps throwing up surprises the deeper you dig. The country is meant to be explored on four wheels. The roads are immaculately maintained and run arrow-straight for hundreds of kilometres. A road trip in Saudi is the best way to get around and get off the usual tourist beat. You will find the real Saudi in the far-flung reaches of its borders, that are hundreds of miles away from the manicured glamour of its cities. Get into the driver’s seat if you want to explore the soul of Saudi that it guards jealously.
But first, the right preparation is the key to enjoying a road trip though Saudi. There are conditions to fulfil and paperwork to be filled. It is best to be prepared by keeping all the potential documents you may need, at hand. But don’t let all the prospect of paperwork dissuade you, it is worth the expedition. Also, it is best to know your limits and ensure that you do not overstretch yourself to the breaking point. A road trip is meant to be fun and adventurous, but only if done right. Here’s how to plan the ultimate road trip through Saudi.
Plan your route
This is a crucial step. Map your route even before you set foot in Saudi. Create a realistic itinerary that will enable you to explore the maximum sights and landmarks. Plan a route that will take you through Saudi without unnecessary detours and detractions. Having said that, you are allowed to stray off your itinerary and unearth unexpected sightseeing gems.
Plan for this contingency and keep some days in reserve to accommodate unplanned deviations from your travel plan. That is the essence of a road trip. Some of the best adventures are unplanned. Follow the road, as they say. Also make sure that you take scheduled night halts. Book your accommodation in advance to get a better deal on hotels.
Documents and car rentals
A valid driving license of your home country is the most basic requirement for your Saudi road trip. In addition to that you will also need an International Driving Permit (IDP), mostly to rent a car. While the international car rental services may rent you, a foreign driver, a car without an IDP, the local car rental services will not.
It’s best to apply for and get your IDP in your home country before reaching Saudi. Interestingly, once you are on the road, you will not require the IDP unless your own driving license is printed in a non-Roman script. If you are stopped at a checkpoint, your valid driving license and passport will be enough to get you through.
A credit card is the most preferred mode of payment for car rentals in Saudi. Almost all car rental services will swipe a security deposit that will be returned to you on the day you return the car in its original condition. As a foreigner, you are allowed to pick up your rental at major airports. Call ahead to confirm.
Driving in Saudi
The roads in Saudi are well maintained, which means you don’t need a big and powerful SUV to get around; they are expensive! A sedan or a hatchback are more reasonably priced and will get you around comfortably and efficiently. But if you have the money to spend, you can splurge on a SUV and explore Saudi in ultimate comfort.
Petrol is reasonably priced in Saudi, which means you don’t have to worry much about overpaying for fuel. But a car with a good mileage will allow you to stretch your money and make it last longer. Yet another crucial thing to know is the mileage limit of your rented car. Most car rentals set a 200-250 kilometres limit per day.
While it may seem like a lot, it is not enough in Saudi where you can go hundreds of kilometres between cities. For example, the trip from Riyadh to AlUla is 1114 kilometres one way. You must pay extra for anything above the mileage limit. One way to get around this problem is to not drive daily. If you keep your average daily mileage below the limit, the rental companies won’t charge you extra. The other solution, paying for unlimited mileage, may be quite pricey.
On the road
Driving in Saudi is quite safe. But the average speeds are quite high due to its long and well-maintained roads. Watch out for speed bumps, which are everywhere in Saudi especially around check points. The sand may look like an inviting off-road experience but stay away from it. It is easy to get stuck in the loose desert sand. Make sure you have plenty of fuel as petrol stations are spaced far apart. Carry extra fuel for especially long trips.
Most important of all, have fun. The undulating desert landscapes, and the long ramrod-straight roads are mesmerising in their stark beauty. Undertake this expedition of travel and adventure; and enjoy the rich rewards of your intrepid explorations.
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