What are the rules for driving in Mecca?
I'm a Muslim making a pilgrimage to Mecca. I'm an American citizen and have a valid US driver's license.
I'm trying to find information weather I need to apply for a special license to drive my family around in the following cities: Jeddah, Mecca, and Medina. I'll be renting a car at Jeddah Airport (JED).
Best Answer
Is it safe to assume you're a male and fit the requirements including your documents to enter Mecca? Rules in Mecca are the same as the rest of Saudi Arabia. You require your license, and visa (i.e. passport or work-papers) with you at all times. BTW, a drivers license in Saudi Arabia is not considered proper ID, so carry your passport/equivalent.
Although I would err on the side of taking extra insurance. Insurance in Saudi Arabia is optional, so not all drivers you encounter on the road will be covered!
Pictures about "What are the rules for driving in Mecca?"
Are cars allowed in Makkah?
MAKKAH: Vehicles are to be banned from entering the holy city of Makkah in a bid to ease traffic congestion during the Hajj season.Can tourists drive in Saudi?
Aside from their native driver's licence, tourists will also need an international driving licence to drive in Saudi Arabia.Can you drive a car in Saudi Arabia?
Who can drive in Saudi Arabia? You need to be at least 18 years old to drive in the Kingdom. Holders of driving licenses issued in the EU, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, as well as the neighboring GCC states (Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, and UAE), can use them for three months.Are foreigners allowed in Mecca?
In Mecca, only Muslims are allowed, while non-Muslims may not enter or pass through. Attempting to enter Mecca as a non-Muslim can result in penalties such as a fine; being in Mecca as a non-Muslim can result in deportation.I Went to Mecca Without Breaking the Rules…
Sources: Stack Exchange - This article follows the attribution requirements of Stack Exchange and is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.
Images: Mikhail Nilov, Yaroslav Shuraev, cottonbro, Brett Sayles