Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Transport
In general, except in Dubai and Doha which have good public transport systems and Saudi
where women can't drive, it is really useful to have a car for getting to work and/or running
family errands. Cities are spread out and offices, services and entertainments far flung.
The Peninsula is a good place to buy a car but note that you can't buy one without a res-
idency permit. Most mainstream makes and models are available, and prices are low (since
there's no import duty). As when shopping for other items, bargaining is normal. A down
payment of around 10% of the purchase price is usually expected if taking out a loan.
Because cars are cheap, they're also seen as disposable by the wealthy. There is a grow-
ing secondhand car market throughout the region. Note that change of ownership has to be
completed with the local police. When buying a vehicle (or importing one), you usually
have to register it with the police traffic department.
When secondhand car shopping it's essential you ensure that the car you're interested in
purchasing has the following:
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an up-to-date test certificate
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a registration certificate (and that the engine and chassis numbers of the car matches the latter)
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a clean bill of health from a mechanic
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a clean record - fines outstanding on the car are usually transferred to the new owner.
