Saudi Arabia (SA)

Traditional taxis are rare in Saudi Arabia's major cities in 2026 — largely replaced by Uber and Careem. Traditional licensed taxis do still operate, primarily at airports and in smaller cities. Taxi meters are mandatory but often not used — negotiate price before entering. Uber and Careem are the norm: convenient, metered, cashless, and widely available. Typical Uber fare in Riyadh: SAR 10–25 for a 10-km journey. Airport journeys: SAR 30–80 from central Riyadh to KKIA.

Uber and Careem dominate Saudi Arabia's ride-share market in 2026. Both apps work seamlessly with Saudi numbers. Uber Comfort and Uber Black are available for premium rides. Careem also offers Careem Bike in some areas. InDriver allows you to negotiate prices with drivers — useful for longer journeys. Ride-share is safe, widely used, and culturally accepted for both men and women (women gained full right to travel in taxis and ride-share without a male guardian from 2019). Book via app — payment is in-app; tip not mandatory but appreciated.

Cycling infrastructure in Saudi Arabia is developing but remains limited in 2026. Some residential areas (particularly newer compounds and districts) have cycle paths. Riyadh's extreme summer heat makes outdoor cycling dangerous from May–September. Cycling at temperatures above 40°C can cause heat stroke. Al-Diriyah, north Riyadh, and some coastal areas have cycling tracks for recreational use. Cycling is not a viable commuting option for most expats in major cities. E-scooters (Lime, Tier) are available in limited areas of Riyadh.

The Haramain High-Speed Railway (حرمين) is Saudi Arabia's flagship rail project — 450 km linking Madinah–Jeddah–Mecca at up to 300 km/h. Operational since 2018. In 2026, it carries millions of Hajj and Umrah pilgrims annually. Non-Muslims can travel to Jeddah and KAEC stops but not Mecca and Medina. The North-South Railway (SAR — Saudi Railways Organisation) connects Riyadh to Qassim, Hail, Jouf, and Tabuk — primarily freight and limited passenger service. The Riyadh–Dammam railway has plans for expansion. Long-distance intercity travel remains largely by car or domestic air (Riyadh–Jeddah flights from SAR 120 one-way on Flynas or SAUDIA).

Car travel is the primary mode of transport for most Saudi residents and expats. Roads are generally good quality — multi-lane highways connect major cities. However, Saudi Arabia has historically had very high road accident rates — improving in 2026 with Vision 2030 enforcement, but still elevated compared to European standards. Speed limits: up to 140 km/h on some Saudi highways (many sections posted 120 km/h), 80 km/h on expressways, 60 km/h on city roads, 40 km/h in residential areas. SAHER automated camera system enforces speed limits nationwide. Driving tips: never use mobile phone while driving (SAR 500 fine); always wear seatbelts (SAR 150 fine); road rage is common — keep calm; night driving on rural roads is hazardous (camels and livestock wander onto roads). Petrol in 2026: Octane 91 at SAR 0.93/litre; Octane 95 at SAR 1.18/litre — among the cheapest in the world.

Riyadh: King Khalid International Airport (KKIA) — 35 km north of city centre; served by SAUDIA, flynas, flyadeal, and major international carriers. Expansion (Terminal 5 / New Riyadh Airport project) is underway for Vision 2030 tourism targets. Jeddah: King Abdulaziz International Airport (KAIA) — major international hub; new terminal opened 2018. Dammam: King Fahd International Airport — serves the Eastern Province. Domestic flights: SAUDIA, flynas, and flyadeal operate extensive domestic network. Riyadh–Jeddah takes 1 hour; Riyadh–Dammam 40 minutes. Book domestic flights early around Eid — massive demand. Taxi to KKIA from central Riyadh: SAR 60–100 (Uber); Darb Metro connection is planned but not yet operational in 2026.