Car Rental Deposit in Saudi Arabia: What You Pay Up Front and What You Get Back

"How much is the deposit?" is one of the first questions people ask when renting a car. The answer is easier to understand once you separate three different amounts: the rental price, any security amount, and charges that only appear if something happens during the rental.

1. The rental price

This is the cost of the car for your dates: days, a week or a month, plus any add-ons you chose and a fee if you return in another city. With Sajil you see the full rental price before you confirm and pay it online with mada, Visa or Mastercard, or Apple Pay in the Sajil app. See how to pay for a car rental.

2. A security amount

Some rentals include a security amount that covers costs found only at return, such as missing fuel, extra kilometres, late return or traffic issues. How much it is and how it is taken depends on the car, the plan and the branch, so ask before pickup and make sure it is written in your contract.

• On a credit card, it is often a temporary hold rather than a charge, and the bank releases it after the rental is closed.
• On a debit card such as mada, the money usually leaves your account and comes back as a refund.

Bank processing times differ, so a refund can take some days to show in your account after the rental is closed.

3. Charges that may be added at return

• Fuel below the level you received.
• Kilometres above the limit in your contract. See mileage limits explained.
• Late return beyond the agreed time.
• Damage that was not recorded at pickup.

How to get your money back quickly

1. Inspect the car at pickup and make sure every scratch is recorded. Our pickup and return checklist helps.
2. Return on time or extend before the contract ends.
3. Refuel to the same level and keep the receipt.
4. Ask for the contract to be closed at the branch and keep the closing message.
5. Check your fines a day or two later; see how to check traffic fines.

Monthly and long-term rentals

For monthly and package rentals, the rental itself is paid when you book. Read 3, 6 and 9 month packages to see how long-term prices work.

Frequently asked questions

Is the deposit the same as the rental price?

No. The rental price pays for the car. A security amount, if one applies, covers costs found at return and is released or refunded afterwards.

Can I rent without a credit card?

Yes. You can pay online with mada. See car rental without a credit card.

How long does a refund take?

It depends on your bank and the card type. Keep your contract closing details in case you need to follow up.