Traveling around Saudi Arabia has become easier than ever thanks to modern taxi services and ride-hailing apps.Taxi network have been available in Saudi Arabia to tourists looking to explore the Kingdom, residents looking to get to and back to work on a daily basis, and pilgrims coming to Makkah and Madinah to pay their respects.
This comprehensive guide explains all you should know about taxi service in Saudi Arabia in terms of prices and booking services, apps, laws, and traveling hints.
Overview of Taxi Transportation in Saudi Arabia
The transportation system in Saudi Arabia has developed at a high rate according to Vision 2030, the national modernization plan. Taxi is another one of the most critical forms of travel methods along with metro lines and express highways.
Previously, the roads were full of traditional yellow taxis, but nowadays, new digital ride-hailing apps, like Careem, Uber, Jeeny, and Bolt, have become the leaders. These apps give clear-cut prices, no cash usage, and 24 hours in all large cities.
Major Cities with Taxi Services
- Riyadh – Capital city with high demand for corporate and airport rides
- Jeddah – Gateway to Makkah and Red Sea coast
- Makkah – Religious city with thousands of daily pilgrims
- Madinah – Holy city with strong inter-city connections
- Dammam / Al-Khobar – Eastern province business hub
Types of Taxi Service in Saudi Arabia
1. Standard City Taxis
Hotels, airports, and taxi stands have traditional taxis. These cabs have controlled meters and offer a fast service to get to the closest locations.
Features:
- Air-conditioned sedans
- Regulated meter fare
- Cash payment option
- Usually marked with official taxi signage
3. Private Chauffeur or VIP Taxi
For business travelers and tourists seeking luxury, private chauffeur services are available. Vehicles range from sedans to SUVs, with English-speaking drivers and premium comfort.
Best For:
- Airport transfers
- Corporate meetings
- Family travel with luggage
4. Inter-City and Pilgrimage Taxis
Special taxi services connect holy cities like Makkah and Madinah, and other intercity routes such as Riyadh ↔ Jeddah or Dammam ↔ Khobar. These services are ideal for Umrah, Hajj, or long-distance travel.
Benefits:
- Fixed fares
- Spacious vehicles for luggage
- Experienced drivers familiar with routes and religious sites
Taxi Fare System and Average Rates
In Saudi Arabia, the Public Transport Authority controls the prices of taxi fares to make them fair. Although the fares of apps might be slightly dependent on demand, city taxis are usually subject to standardized prices.
City Taxi Fare Rates (Approximate)
| City | Base Fare (SAR) | Per KM Rate (SAR) | Waiting Time (SAR/hour) | Minimum Charge (SAR) |
| Riyadh | 13 | 7.0 | 50 | 10 |
| Jeddah | 12 | 6.5 | 45 | 10 |
| Makkah | 10 | 5.5 | 40 | 10 |
| Madinah | 11 | 6.0 | 45 | 10 |
| Dammam | 12 | 6.2 | 45 | 10 |
Long-Distance Taxi Fares (Estimated)
| Route | Distance (KM) | Average Fare (SAR) | Duration (Hours) |
| Makkah → Jeddah Airport | 90 | 180–250 | 1.5 |
| Makkah → Madinah | 450 | 500–700 | 4–5 |
| Riyadh → Dammam | 410 | 450–600 | 4 |
| Jeddah → Taif | 170 | 300–400 | 2 |
| Madinah → Yanbu | 230 | 350–500 | 3 |
Factors Influencing Fare
- Traffic Conditions: Rush hours and congestion increase trip time and cost.
- Vehicle Type: SUVs or vans cost more than sedans.
- Booking Platform: App-based taxis can surge in price during peak hours.
- Special Seasons: Fares rise during Ramadan and Hajj.
Top Taxi Booking Apps in Saudi Arabia
Modern travelers prefer app-based bookings for convenience and safety. Below are the most used taxi apps in Saudi Arabia.
| App Name | Cities Covered | Payment Options | Key Features |
| Careem | All major cities | Cash / Card | Ride scheduling, multiple vehicle types |
| Uber | Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam | Cash / Card | Real-time tracking, customer safety |
| Jeeny | Riyadh, Jeddah, Makkah | Cash / Card | Local pricing, fast service |
| Bolt | Riyadh, Jeddah | Card only | Affordable short rides |
| Hala (via Careem) | Riyadh, Jeddah | Cash / Card | Combines city taxis with app convenience |
💡 Tip: For local routes, Jeeny and Hala often offer lower fares, while Careem and Uber are preferred for reliability and premium cars.
Regulations and Safety Standards
Saudi Arabia ensures all taxi operators follow strict safety and quality standards. The Transport General Authority (TGA) supervises taxi licensing and digital ride services.
Government Regulations Include:
- All drivers must hold valid Saudi driving licenses and professional permits.
- Vehicles must pass annual safety inspections.
- Each taxi must display a digital fare meter and driver ID.
- Insurance coverage is mandatory for passenger protection.
Passenger Safety Tips
- Always confirm the vehicle plate number before entering.
- Use app-based rides for better accountability.
- Avoid sharing rides with unregistered drivers.
- Share your trip details with family or friends when traveling long distances.
Taxi Services for Tourists and Pilgrims
Umrah and Hajj Taxi Services
During Umrah and Hajj, transportation demand increases sharply. Special taxi and shuttle services are arranged to connect pilgrims between:
- Jeddah Airport ↔ Makkah
- Makkah ↔ Madinah
- Madinah ↔ Miqat Points
Benefits:
- Fixed-rate packages
- Spacious vehicles for families and luggage
- 24/7 availability
- Drivers familiar with pilgrimage routes
Tourist & Sightseeing Taxi Options
For visitors wanting to explore heritage and modern attractions:
- Riyadh City Tour – Kingdom Tower, Masmak Fort
- Jeddah City Tour – Corniche, Al-Balad Historic District
- Taif Tour – Al-Hada mountain road and rose gardens
Most taxi companies offer hourly or daily packages for sightseeing with English-speaking drivers.
| City Tour Package | Duration | Vehicle Type | Approx. Fare (SAR) |
| Riyadh Half-Day | 4 hrs | Toyota Camry | 250–300 |
| Jeddah Full-Day | 8 hrs | Hyundai Staria | 400–550 |
| Makkah–Taif Round Trip | Full Day | Sedan | 600–750 |
Advantages of Using Taxi Services in Saudi Arabia
- No need for a local driving license
- Air-conditioned rides ideal for the desert climate
- Availability at airports, hotels, and malls
- Stress-free transfers between holy sites
- Reliable drivers familiar with Umrah and Hajj routes
- Saves time and fuel costs compared to personal vehicles
Future of Taxi Services in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 aims to transform the country into a hub of smart mobility.
Upcoming Developments
- Electric and Hybrid Taxis:
The government encourages eco-friendly fleets to reduce emissions. - Autonomous Taxi Projects:
In NEOM, pilot projects for driverless taxis are already underway. - AI-Powered Fare Optimization:
Dynamic pricing and AI routing will reduce waiting time and improve fuel efficiency. - Integrated Mobility Platforms:
Future apps will combine taxis, metros, and buses under a single payment system.
Tips for Choosing the Right Taxi in Saudi Arabia
- Check Reviews: Always choose registered companies with positive user ratings.
- Compare Fare Estimates: Apps like Careem show fare before booking.
- Book in Advance for Inter-City Trips: Avoid last-minute price surges.
- Choose Vehicle Type Wisely: SUVs for families, sedans for solo travelers.
- Keep Change Handy: While cards are accepted, some drivers prefer cash.
Final Thoughts
The taxi service in Saudi Arabia is an essential part of the Kingdom’s growing transportation network. From bustling cities like Riyadh and Jeddah to sacred destinations like Makkah and Madinah, taxis offer reliable, safe, and comfortable travel options for everyone.
With transparent fare systems, app-based bookings, and government safety regulations, travelers can move across Saudi Arabia with complete peace of mind. Whether you are heading to the airport, exploring the desert, or embarking on a pilgrimage, a Saudi taxi service ensures your journey remains smooth, secure, and stress-free.
FAQs
In most Saudi cities, the regulated fare is about SAR 2.10 per km (beyond the base fare) for standard 4-seat taxis. The base (meter start) is around SAR 6.40, and the minimum charge is SAR 10. Waiting time (slow traffic / stop & go) is charged at ~ SAR 0.90 per minute.
Yes. Many app-based services allow advance booking. Also, dedicated pilgrimage / transfer taxi services often let you schedule pickup times (for example from Jeddah airport to Makkah).
Laws require the meter to be active at trip start. If the driver refuses or the meter is not working, passengers may refuse payment or ask to cancel the ride. You also have the right to lodge a complaint with the transport authority.
Yes, licensed taxi services and app-based providers are generally safe. Drivers are vetted, vehicles are tracked, and many apps allow trip sharing or emergency support. If you choose recognized services and confirm driver credentials, safety is quite reliable.
