Driving in Saudi Arabia as a Japan National

Saudi Arabia has recently opened to tourism with modern highways, extreme heat, and very cheap fuel. Women can now drive. Riyadh and Jeddah traffic can be heavy; the NEOM development signals ongoing infrastructure change.

Key Things to Know First

IDP Required

Saudi Arabia requires an International Driving Permit for foreign visitors. Obtain one in Japan before departure.

How to get an IDP

Drive on the Right — You Are Switching Sides

Japan drives on the left, but Saudi Arabia drives on the right. Extra caution required at roundabouts, intersections, and after exits.

Tips for switching sides

Side-by-Side Comparison

Rule	Japan	Saudi Arabia	Change?
Traffic side	Left-hand traffic	Right-hand traffic	Yes
Speed unit	km/h	km/h	Same
IDP required	—	Yes	Yes
Min. driving age	18	18	Same
Emergency number	110	911	Different
Road difficulty	Moderate	Moderate	—

Speed Limits in Saudi Arabia

Urban

40-60 km/h

Rural / Open road

100-120 km/h

Highway / Motorway

120-140 km/h

Documents to Carry in Saudi Arabia

Original driving licence from Japan — must be valid and unexpired
International Driving Permit (IDP) — required in Saudi Arabia. Obtain from your national motoring association before travelling.
Passport or national ID — carry at all times while driving
Car insurance certificate — verify it covers Saudi Arabia before departure
Vehicle registration / rental agreement

Emergency Number in Saudi Arabia

911

Primary emergency number in Saudi Arabia. Save it before you drive.

Emergency numbers for all countries

Full Saudi Arabia Driving Guide

Road rules, toll system, fuel types, parking, regional quirks — everything you need for driving in Saudi Arabia.

Read the complete guide