Job Discussion Forums

windstar · Joined: 22 Dec 2007 Posts: 235

Can you rent a car in KSA before you get your iqama? Do you need anything for that? As i understand, getting iqama will take at least a month or so after arrival in KSA. I am talking about Jeddah.

007 · Posted: Wed May 28, 2008 12:34 pm Post subject:

Well, without a valid Iqama and a valid driving license it would be impossible to rent a car in the magic kingdom!
BUT, there are some car agents who might accept your passport with a valid SA visa instead of the Iqama, plus you need to have a valid international/GCC driving license.
Do a google search or ask the car agents in Jeddah airport for more information.

trapezius · Posted: Wed May 28, 2008 1:03 pm Post subject:

One of my colleagues last year was able to rent a car with his passport/business visa and US driving license.

But I suspect that not all agents would be willing to do that, and if they are willing, they wouldn't be willing to give a car to other than white-skinned overlords.

scot47 · Joined: 10 Jan 2003 Posts: 15343

I have heard of people on business visas hiring a car - just with a passport. Not sure of the legality though!

Longton · Joined: 17 Jul 2006 Posts: 148

I had a week in KSA earlier this year. I was on a business visa. I had no problems renting a car. I have a British passport and driving licence and a UAE licence.

windstar · Joined: 22 Dec 2007 Posts: 235

Please forgive my naivity. Is "business visa" the same as the one you get for your employment as EFLer?
I hold a Canadian passport and driver's licence as well as an international one.

lall · Joined: 30 Dec 2006 Posts: 358

scot47 · Joined: 10 Jan 2003 Posts: 15343

If you are coming here to work - you SHOULD be on a regular visa that gives you an Iqama after arrival. For a while PMU were bringing people in on business visas. I am not sure if they still resort to that.