Self-drive tours across Saudi Arabia offer an unparalleled journey through its vast, diverse landscapes- from sweeping deserts to majestic mountains, volcanic formations to tranquil oases.
With the freedom that comes with self-drive, guests can navigate these diverse landscapes at their own pace, lingering as long as they wish or skipping sites that are not of interest to them. With self-drive guests can also choose from Saudi Arabia’s varied historic and cultural sites, creating a selection of stops based on personal interests.
Beyond the freedom granted by self-drive programmes, they are a bit more affordable way to discover Saudi Arabia. In addition, an excellent road network with mostly English-language signage makes it an easy, comfortable option. Strong 4G and 5G wifi coverage makes navigation easy using Google Maps.
Read on to learn more about EXO Saudi Arabia’s self-drive options and additional insight into this style of travel.
What does a Saudi Arabia self-drive journey entail?
For self-drive programmes, EXO arranges the framework of the tour. This includes the rental car, accommodation and any guides or sightseeing requested along the way. EXO also provides a program with suggested sites and stops along the way, tailored to match guests’ needs.
The rental options in Saudi Arabia range from economy cars to four-wheel drive SUVs. All are recent models with safety features meeting international standards. Rentals also come with insurance (more details listed below)
It is worth noting that rental cars are not permitted off-road. If guests wish to explore some of the sand dunes and desert tracks, EXO arranges a specially trained driver with an appropriate 4×4 vehicle for these sections. These can be incorporated into the self drive programs, generally as half day adventures.
EXO’s recommended routes:
EXO Saudi Arabia will suggest the best routes to fit guests’ personal interests and preferences.
A 3-5 day drive from Medina to Tabuk is an interesting route that easily fits into most itineraries. Along the way, guests can visit AlUla and Wadi Disah, explore heritage sites, sand dunes, volcanic landscapes and green valleys. Going overland from Riyadh to Medina and Jeddah via AlUla is another great option.
For those seeking a bit more adventure, Saudi Arabia’s southwestern Asir region is very mountainous and presents opportunities for trekking. Here one finds a mix of cultural highlights and mountainous landscapes to explore.
EXO does not suggest visiting Riyadh, Medina or Jeddah by self-drive. Parking is a challenge and, for those not familiar with the routes, traffic jams are hard to avoid.
For self-drive programmes starting in these towns, usually Riyadh, EXO suggests a guided visit which will familiarise guests with the destination and often the guide will help collect the car to ensure a smooth transaction. Dropping the car in Medina, guests benefit from a guided visit to understand the area’s religious significance before continuing to Jeddha via high speed railway, an adventure in itself. A guided tour in Jeddah completes the trip, answering all questions that came up during the self-drive and leaving travellers with a balanced mix of independent discovery and culture.
Requirements and Insurance:
The following regulations apply to international drivers:
- Renter and all drivers must be at least 23 years of age
- Renter and all drivers must have a driving licence from their country of residence and a valid international driving permit
- Additional drivers must be listed on the rental agreement
- A credit card is required for the deposit
All car rentals arranged by EXO Saudi Arabia include compulsory third-party insurance and super damage waiver. Coverage for off-road driving, unfortunately, does not seem to exist in Saudi Arabia
EXO Travel is a premium Destination Management Company (DMC) providing bespoke travel solutions for tour operators and travel agencies across a growing portfolio of destinations including Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Japan, Korea and Saudi Arabia.
Established in 1993, we’ve harnessed in-depth local knowledge and a widely-recognized penchant for authentic, groundbreaking touring to become a leading DMC for the premium travel market. As a certified B Corporation, EXO is also demonstrably committed to sustainability and using travel as a force for good.
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