DRIVING
Confidence comes with practice, so get started
There’s no question about it, off-road driving is hair-raising, adrenaline-fuelled and (most importantly) very, very cool. For the vast majority of people, however, it’s not a natural skill. It takes cautious, careful practice to gradually build up behind-the-wheel confidence. Arrogance and delusions of invincibility should be left by the roadside. The good news is that you don’t have to be at a rally-driver standard to head off the highway. The core skills are simple – be prepared, be practical and pay attention to the environment.
If you’re just visiting Saudi Arabia, you may be able to drive using your home country licence. Licences issued in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states – Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates – can be used in the Kingdom. Licences issued in the European Union, United Kingdom, United States, Canada, Australia and New Zealand will also be accepted for up to three months, while International Driving Permits (IDPs) are valid for one year, but must be presented in conjunction with a valid home-country licence. If you’re a resident, or recently moved to Saudi Arabia, you will need to apply for a Saudi licence before the end of this transition period.
There is a huge range of off-roading equipment on the market in this region, where it is a favourite hobby for many. It’s possible to spend huge amounts of money decking out your vehicle with the latest gadgets, which isn’t necessary for everyone, especially if you’re just getting started.
Sand driving should be thought of as ‘surfing’ the dunes, not ploughing through them. Look at the shape and form of the dune. It is usually better to travel with the direction of the dunes (the direction of the wind). But be careful, because while you may find it easy going with the flow on the way up, it gets a bit tricky if you find yourself going back against it when you turn around.
Driving in the mountains and wadis of Saudi Arabia is less demanding than sand driving. Many tracks are graded and in good condition, so there is less chance of getting stuck. The main things to consider are speed control on loose surfaces – it is possible to skid off the road or roll your car even on graded roads – and to exercise caution on steep gradients and near big drops. You should also watch out for sudden appearances by wild animals and reckless drivers.
If you are involved in an accident, you are required to get a police report at the scene, even if it is a minor mishap or only your car is involved. It is permissible to move your vehicle in the event of minor accidents if it poses a threat to public safety or obstructs traffic, or if the accident was simple and straightforward, with all parties agreeing on how it happened. You may need to drive out to find the police and lead them back to where the accident took place. Without the report you will not be able to make an insurance claim or get repairs carried out on the car.
