pavankks

Hi,

I am from India and have a valid U. S. License from my past work there.

I am in Saudi right now on a Multiple Entry Business Visa.

Can I drive in Saudi with the U. S. License, without breaking the law?

Best regards,
Pavankks

nottmbantam

Not sure is the shortest answer I can offer.

To get a Saudi Driving Licence, you need an Iqama. To get an Iqama, you need a Residency Visa in your passport, and if you had one of these, you would not have a Multi Exit Business Visa.

THe Business Visas tend to be issued for people who are here on a shorter timeframe than 'permanent' employees, OR companies use them when they have run out of visas they can issue.

So, going back to your questions - can you drive on the US Licence? My guess would be I don't think so, but perhaps someone else can advise / confirm.

pavankks

Thanks Nottmbantam for your time.

Look forward to other answers.

Best regards,
Pavankks

nottmbantam

You're welcome, hope someone else might have better news for you.

Good Luck.

norsk

Not sure about US license, but I rented a car and drove on a UK license for 6 months when I was here on a business visa. No problems, but I never got stopped in a road block so who knows what would have happened if I had been.

Strictly speaking I think you are allowed to drive on some foreign licenses for a limited time (and only when you are on business visa). If you ever get a work visa/iqama it is a requirement to get a Saudi license.

pavankks

I hope there are no issues Norsk.

Just got a Cadillac to drive. Start driving tomorrow.

Wish me luck!

Thanks for all the support!

Best regards,
Pavankks

EthanB

It's totally legal as long as you haven't been here longer than 3 months (not 100% sure on the time). Don't worry about it. But be sure to check the Saher site every once in a while to make sure you don't owe any fines.

tieresias

I was told that I can drive a hire car on my UK licence, but cannot have a car of my own or drive a car owned by my employer until my Saudi licence comes through. I guess the same applies for a US licence. On that basis, I've been driving here for four months now, although I've not been stopped or anything, so it has not been put to the test.

norsk

I'm pretty sure that's what I was told when I got here as well.

I drove a rental for about 4 months and was never stopped. The first evening I drove my own car (with my Saudi license) I was stopped. Coincidence I guess...