Does Thrifty require an IDP in Saudi Arabia?
Thrifty in Saudi Arabia: the policy in plain terms
Requires an IDP in select countries and for non-Roman-alphabet licences. Budget-friendly brand paired with Dollar in many markets.
Saudi Arabia drives on the right and bans alcohol entirely; tourists should carry an IDP with their national licence to rent a car.
In Saudi Arabia specifically, saudi Arabia legally requires foreign drivers to carry an International Driving Permit with their national licence, so Thrifty will ask for it at the counter. Riyadh and Jeddah desks request an IDP for non-Arabic licences.
Thrifty runs a global network; at its Saudi Arabia desks, foreign renters are asked for the 1949 Geneva-format International Driving Permit alongside the original licence. Saudi Arabia drives on the right, uses the SAR, and sets a minimum driving age of 18, so an IDP is the document that removes any doubt at the counter.
What to bring to the Thrifty counter in Saudi Arabia
- Your original national driving licence (the IDP never replaces it).
- Your International Driving Permit in the 1949 Geneva format.
- Your passport and a payment card in the main driver's name.
- Local payment for the SAR deposit; Saudi Arabia drives on the right with a young-driver surcharge under 25.
Driving rules in Saudi Arabia Thrifty renters should know
- Drive on the right.
- Zero alcohol — it is prohibited nationwide.
- Saher speed cameras are extensive.
- Seatbelts mandatory.