How to Drive in Saudi

Over the past 18 months, I've had many occastions to be thankful NOT to be allowed to drive.  I also know I never thought I would actually said that out loud...however, the way drivers apply their driving skills is quite different than in many other places in the world.  Imagine all the bad drivers you've encountered in your country.  Now, imagine that ALL countries send their bad drivers to Saudi and you pretty much have the average driver...  Defensive driving is key, not getting hit at crossroads or when turning is a definite must.

I'm not the only one saying this...
Go check out this page How to Drive in The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Brian, a US teacher who decided to go back to the States at the end of last year, sent us the link, as he knows our daily reality.  The How to guide is not much different than in any other place...it's the application of those guidelines that is tricky

Don't drive over the speed limit. Although very common, it is being enforced; there are cops with speed cameras almost everywhere. Undercover cops are also very common on highways, usually a white lumina, crown victoria, or corolla with flashers hid behind the tinted glass, and sometimes they have police bumpers.- My note: Yes, this is true.  In Riyadh, they've really cracked down on speeding and have installed permanent radars all over town.  If you get flashed, don't expect a notice in the mail.  Next time you visit the ATM, you will be asked if you want to pay your ticket, directly from your bank account...  How do they know that information, you may ask...Well, all residents receive an Iqama, a resident card that you have to produce to open a bank account, get a drivers' licence, get insurance..so that number is in the central database and all accounts are linked!


Use turn signal/indicators in the direction you want to go when changing lanes, turning, and waiting at signals, etc. My note:  You can dream on this one!!!  People do not use their turn signals.  When you see one, most probably it was left on three miles down the road and doesn't indicate anything.  At a crossroad, it's always better to stay in the middle lane.  Expect drivers on your right to turn left or drivers on your left to turn right and be ready to slow down to let them pass.

My favorite warning is the following...
Driving can be dangerous. If you cannot drive in another country or are not capable of driving normally, do not attempt to drive in the KSA. 
My note: this must be the understatement of the week!