Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Road Conditions & Driving Amenities
Road Quality
With the exception of parts of Yemen, the Peninsula's road system is one of the best in the world with
high-quality two- or four-lane highways. Few roads are unsealed (except in Yemen and Oman) and 4WDs are on the
whole only necessary for driving off-road in the desert.
Off-road Routes
The term 'off-road' refers to unsealed roads that have been graded, or levelled, with a roller, or tracks
that have simply been made by cars driving along old camel or donkey tracks). To drive on any of these roads you need
a 4WD. Responsible drivers stick to prior tracks and never cut new routes.
Fuel
Petrol stations are widespread along major roadsides and in cities. On the desert roads they can be few and far
between. Away from the main towns it's advisable to fill up whenever you get the chance as remote stations sometimes
run out of fuel. Fuel is extremely cheap throughout the region. Most cars (except in Yemen) run on unleaded petrol.
Garages
Found even in the smallest towns and villages in most countries, but are less common in Yemen. Spare parts
(and servicing) are available for the most popular car models (Toyota and Land Rover especially).
Signposting
Good throughout the region (bar only Yemen) and uses international symbols. English spelling of place
names, however, is erratic and seldom matches the maps.
Parking
A challenge in the cities. Traffic inspectors and parking meters are now more prevalent.
Hazards
See the Safe Travel chapter (
Click here
).
Road Rules
Non-compliance for the following common Peninsula road rules can lead to a hefty fine - although that may be of sur-
prise considering the generally poor standard of driving.
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Driving is on the right side of the road in all Peninsula countries.
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Speed limits range between 100km/h and 120km/h on highways and 45km/h and 60km/h in towns and built-up areas.
Speed cameras are in operation in most city areas and on highways.
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Seatbelt wearing is a legal requirement.
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The use of hand-held mobile phones while driving is an offence.
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The use of the horn is discouraged except in an emergency.
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You should keep your licence with you at all times and carrying a first-aid kit, fire extinguisher and warning triangle
is required in some Peninsula countries.
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Driving under the influence of either alcohol (of any quantity) or drugs is not only considered a grave offence on the
Peninsula, but also automatically invalidates your insurance and makes you liable for any costs in the event of an acci-
dent regardless of fault.
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Women are not permitted to drive in Saudi Arabia.
Hitching
Hitching is never entirely safe in any country and can't be recommended. Travellers who still decide to hitch should un-
derstand that they are taking a small but potentially serious risk. This is particularly the case in the Peninsula, where dis-
tances are great between towns and you can be marooned in isolated places with literally life-threatening consequences
(for example, if you run out of water in summer). You may also find you end up spending days at someone's remote
desert settlement because your driver wanted you to meet the family. Beware: the novelty of communal living quickly
wears off! Women travelling alone should not hitch.
