Temporary Driving Permit for Visitors in Saudi Arabia: The Comprehensive Guide via Absher
Saudi Arabia is one of the most attractive destinations for visitors, whether for tourism or business. In an effort to facilitate the movement of visitors, the Ministry of Interior has introduced the temporary driving permit for visitors service via the Absher platform.
This service allows visitors to drive vehicles in the Kingdom legally using a valid foreign driver’s license accompanied by the temporary permit.
What is the Temporary Driving Permit for Visitors?
The temporary driving permit is an electronic permit issued by the Ministry of Interior through the Absher Individuals platform. It allows visitors (tourists, businesspeople, Umrah and Hajj pilgrims, and visitors for other purposes) to drive a vehicle in the Kingdom using a valid foreign driver’s license along with this electronic permit.
The permit is issued electronically via the Absher Individuals platform and does not require visiting traffic offices, saving visitors time and effort.
Conditions for Obtaining a Temporary Driving Permit for Visitors
To obtain the permit, the following conditions must be met:
| Condition | Details |
|---|---|
| Visitor Status | Applicant must be a visitor to the Kingdom (tourism, business, Umrah, visit, etc.) |
| Valid Driver’s License | Must possess a valid foreign driver’s license issued by a recognized country |
| Age | Applicant must be at least 18 years old |
| Valid Passport | Must have a passport valid for at least 3 months |
| Valid Visa | Must have a valid entry visa (tourism, business, Umrah, visit, etc.) |
| Absher Account | Must have an Absher Individuals account (visitors can create a visitor account) |
| Vehicle Insurance | Must have valid vehicle insurance covering the driving period |
| Clean Driving Record | Must not have any unpaid traffic violations registered against the visitor |
⚠️ Important Note: An International Driving Permit (IDP) does not replace the temporary permit in Saudi Arabia. The temporary permit via Absher is mandatory for legal driving.
Steps to Issue a Temporary Driving Permit for Visitors via Absher
The service is fully electronic and can be completed through the following steps:
1. Logging into Absher Individuals Account
– Go to Absher Individuals and select “Absher Individuals”
– Log in using the visitor account (visitors can create an account via “New User” and select “Visitor”)
2. Selecting the Service
– From the main menu: Select Vehicle Services
– Select Permits
– Select Temporary Driving Permit for Visitors
3. Entering Required Data
– Passport details (number, expiry date, nationality)
– Visa details (type, number, expiry date)
– Foreign driver’s license details (issuing country, number, expiry date, type of license)
– Vehicle details to be driven (license plate, type, model, color)
4. Uploading Required Documents
– Clear image of passport (personal data page + visa page)
– Clear image of foreign driver’s license (both sides)
– Image of vehicle insurance valid
– Image of residence/visa in passport
5. Paying the Fees
– Permit fee: 100 Saudi Riyals (paid electronically via Mada/Apple Pay/STC Pay/Mada cards/Visa/Mastercard)
6. Receiving the Permit
– The permit is issued electronically immediately after payment
– A notification is sent to Absher and an SMS with the permit number
– Can be printed or saved on the phone to be presented when requested
Permit Validity Period
| Visitor Type | Maximum Validity Period |
|---|---|
| Tourist/Business Visitor | 1 year or visa validity period (whichever is shorter) |
| Umrah/Hajj Visitor | Visa validity only (usually 30-90 days) |
| Family Visit Visitor | 90 days or visa validity |
⚠️ Renewal: The permit can be renewed before expiration using the same steps, provided the visa and foreign driver’s license are still valid.
Required Documents (Quick Summary)
| Document | Notes |
|---|---|
| Valid Passport | Personal data page + visa page |
| Valid Foreign Driver’s License | Both sides, clear and legible |
| Vehicle Insurance |
Sari Vehicle | Covers the required permit period | | Valid entry visa | Tourism, business, Umrah, visit, etc. | | Absher individuals account | Visitor or citizen/resident host account |
FAQs
❓ Can I drive with only my foreign license without a permit?
No. Driving with only a foreign license without a temporary permit via Absher is considered a traffic violation (driving without a valid license) and is subject to fines and impoundment.
❓ Does the International Driving Permit (IDP) replace the Absher permit?
No. The International Driving Permit is not recognized in Saudi Arabia as a substitute for the temporary permit. The permit via Absher is mandatory.
❓ How long does it take to issue the permit?
Instantly after paying the fees and completing the data. The permit is issued electronically within minutes.
❓ Can I obtain a permit for more than one vehicle?
Yes, you can issue a permit for each vehicle separately, provided that each vehicle has valid insurance.
❓ Can a resident obtain a permit for a visitor?
Yes, a citizen or resident (host) can obtain the permit for a visitor via their Absher individuals or business account (service “Driving Permit for Visitor”).
❓ What happens when the permit expires?
You must stop driving immediately and renew the permit or leave the Kingdom. Driving with an expired permit = traffic violation.
❓ Does the permit cover all types of vehicles?
The permit is issued for the specific type of vehicle listed in the application (private, light transport, motorcycle). It does not cover heavy vehicles or buses unless a separate permit is obtained.
❓ What if I lose the electronic permit?
You can view and print it at any time through your Absher individuals account > My Services > Driving Permits.
❓ Are there fees for renewing the permit?
Yes, the same fee of 100 SAR is paid for each renewal.
❓ Can I drive in all cities of the Kingdom?
Yes, the permit is valid in all cities and regions of the Kingdom.
Service Fees (Summary)
| Service | Fees |
|---|---|
| Issuing a temporary driving permit for visitors | 100 Saudi Riyals |
| Renewing the permit | 100 Saudi Riyals |
| Replacing the permit (lost/damaged) | 100 Saudi Riyals |
Fees are paid electronically via approved payment methods in Absher (Mada, Apple Pay, STC Pay, Visa, Mastercard).
Important Tips for Visitor Drivers
- Always carry: Passport + Foreign Driving License + Electronic Permit (printed or on phone) + Vehicle Insurance
- Follow traffic rules: Sahan system applies to everyone, and violations are recorded for visitors
- Mandatory insurance: Ensure the vehicle’s insurance is valid throughout the permit period
- Early renewal: Renew the permit at least 7 days before expiration to avoid violations
- Save the permit: Keep a copy of the permit on your phone and print a backup copy
Summary
The temporary driving permit for visitors service via Absher individuals is the only official gateway for driving in Saudi Arabia for visitors. The service is fully electronic, issued instantly, and costs only 100 SAR. Do not risk driving without a permit — traffic violations in Saudi Arabia are strict, and the permit protects you and ensures your travels are safe and comfortable.
📱 Start now: Go to Absher individuals > Vehicle Services > Permits > Temporary Driving Permit for Visitors.
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