Bahrain is only a short drive from Al Khobar across the King Fahd Causeway, so many people ask whether they can take a rental car from Saudi Arabia across the border. The short answer: never without written approval from the rental company. Here is why, and what to do instead.
Why approval is needed
- Ownership: a rental car belongs to the rental company. At the border you must show that the owner allows the car to leave the Kingdom, usually through an authorisation document.
- Insurance: Saudi rental insurance covers driving in Saudi Arabia. Driving in another country needs insurance valid there.
- The contract: the unified electronic rental contract (Tajeer) is a Saudi contract. Taking the car abroad without permission breaks the contract terms.
With Sajil: do not plan a cross-border trip in a rental car before calling 920019913. The team will tell you whether it is possible for your car and dates and what is required. Without written approval, the car must stay in Saudi Arabia.
Documents travellers need at the causeway
Your own travel documents are needed whatever car you drive: a valid passport or national ID for Saudi citizens, a valid iqama with an exit and re-entry visa for residents, and a visa for Bahrain where it applies. Check the official King Fahd Causeway and Bahrain immigration channels for current rules and fees before you travel.
Smart alternatives
- Drive to Al Khobar and cross another way. Rent a car for the Eastern Province leg and use a bus or taxi service across the causeway.
- Rent on the other side. Book a car in Bahrain for the days you are there.
- Make the Gulf coast the trip. Al Khobar, Dammam and Half Moon Bay are a great weekend on their own. See Riyadh to Dammam and Al Khobar by car and our Al Khobar guide.
Driving from Riyadh towards the causeway
The drive from Riyadh to the causeway is about 450 km on the Riyadh to Dammam highway, around four and a half hours with a break. A comfortable sedan such as the Hyundai Elantra or a family car such as the Kia Carnival makes the trip easy. Read highway driving in Saudi Arabia before you go.
Visiting from the GCC?
If you are a GCC citizen visiting Saudi Arabia and want to rent here, see car rental for GCC visitors.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take a rental car from Riyadh to Bahrain?
Only with written approval from the rental company and insurance valid in Bahrain. Call Sajil before planning it.
What happens if I cross without approval?
You may be stopped at the border, the car would not be insured abroad, and you would breach the rental contract.
How far is Bahrain from Riyadh by car?
About 450 km to the King Fahd Causeway, around four and a half hours.
Ready for the road?
Daily, weekly and monthly car rental from our branches across the Kingdom.
