Getting around Riyadh and Jeddah
Metro, ride-hailing, driving licences and the cost of owning a car.
In short
Riyadh Metro opened in 2024–2025 with six lines. Jeddah relies on cars and ride-hailing, and the Haramain train links Jeddah, Makkah and Madinah.
- Riyadh Metro
- 6 lines
- Haramain train
- Jeddah–Makkah–Madinah
- Ride apps
- Uber, Careem, Jeeny
- Fines
- Saher cameras
Step by step
Tick each step as you finish it. Open a step to see what to do.
Riyadh metro and bus cards.
Day 1
Documents checklist
Do’s and don’ts
Do
- Check Saher fines in Absher
Don’t
- Don’t speed – cameras are everywhere
Cost estimator
Untick what doesn't apply to you. These are rough figures and fees change often, so check with the authority.
Watch out
- Fines double if unpaid after the deadline in some cases.
Common questions
Can women drive?
Yes, since 2018.
Official links
Background and more detail
Public transport
The Riyadh Metro opened in phases from December 2024 with six lines. The Haramain High-Speed Railway links Jeddah, Makkah and Madinah. Buses serve both cities but most residents still drive.
Ride-hailing
Uber, Careem and local apps are widely available and reasonably priced.
Driving licences
Residents with licences from many countries can convert them through the Traffic Department via Absher, usually after a short test. Others take a driving school course. Women have been able to drive since 2018.
Car costs
- Fuel is cheap by global standards
- Insurance is compulsory
- Traffic cameras are everywhere, and you can see fines in Absher
- Annual inspection (Fahas) is required for older vehicles
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