Highway Driving in Saudi Arabia: Camels, Trucks, Night Driving and Rest Stops

Saudi highways are wide, straight and well lit near the cities, which makes long drives feel easy. That ease is the main risk: tiredness, speed and a few hazards that are special to the region. Here is what experienced drivers do on roads like Riyadh to Dammam, Taif or Qassim.

Camels on the road

Many highways have fences, but camels still find gaps, especially in rural stretches.

• Watch for the yellow camel warning signs; they are there for a reason.
• The highest risk is at dusk, at night and early in the morning.
• A camel is tall, so your headlights light its legs, not its body. If you see legs ahead, slow down hard.
• Never try to drive around a group of camels at speed. Stop and let them cross.

Sharing the road with trucks

• Trucks keep to the right lane; overtake them on the left and do not cut in close afterwards.
• Expect wind and sand thrown up as you pass.
• On two-lane roads, overtake only where the line allows it and you can see far ahead.

Driving at night

• Use high beams on empty roads and dip them for oncoming traffic.
• Keep extra distance; distances are hard to judge in the dark.
• Do not drive tired. Stop for 15 minutes every two hours, or sooner if you feel sleepy.

Fuel and rest stops

Most highways have stations with fuel, a small shop, toilets and a mosque, but on some routes the gap between them is long. Fill up when the tank reaches half, especially at night. See petrol prices in Saudi Arabia to plan the cost.

Speed and cameras

Many highways allow 120 km/h and some 140 km/h, but limits change near towns and junctions. Speed cameras are fixed and mobile. Our guide to speed limits in Saudi Arabia lists them.

Before a long drive in a rental car

1. Check the tyres, including the spare, and the air conditioning.
2. Download offline maps; signal can be weak between towns.
3. Carry water and some snacks.
4. Save the Sajil number: 920019913.

Popular highway trips: Riyadh to Dammam and Al Khobar, Riyadh to Al-Ahsa and Riyadh to Madinah.

Choose a comfortable car

For long distances, comfort matters: the Hyundai Elantra is quiet and economical, the Ford Taurus is roomy, and families do well in the Kia Carnival.

Frequently asked questions

When are camels most dangerous on the road?

At dusk, at night and early in the morning, especially on rural highways.

Can I drive between cities at night?

Yes, but take more breaks, watch for camels and keep a lower speed.

Can I return the rental car in another city?

Yes, if Sajil has a branch there. Choose a different return branch when you book; the fee is shown before you confirm.