Car Sharing in Saudi Arabia: Market Overview 2025

Car sharing is gradually becoming an integral part of Saudi Arabia’s transportation system, where owning a personal vehicle has long been the default way to get around.
The rise of digital platforms, improved infrastructure, and the spread of cashless payments have created the right environment for flexible rental models.
By 2025, the market has taken shape: three major operators — iDRIVE, Ekar, and SHIFT inc — now serve customers through different formats, from classic free-floating rentals to P2P and digital car-as-a-service solutions.

Car Sharing Formats

Note:
Udrive launched a pilot project in Riyadh in 2022 but ended operations in Saudi Arabia by 2025. The official website now lists only UAE locations.

Market Players: Who Offers the Rides

Today, the Saudi market is dominated by a few key players:

• SHIFT inc offers hourly rentals and daily packages directly through the app. The entire process is contactless — cars are unlocked with a smartphone instead of a physical key.
• iDRIVE continues expanding its fleet in major cities, focusing on fixed rates and 24/7 customer support.
• Ekar promotes its P2P car sharing model, allowing users to rent vehicles directly from owners — especially popular in Riyadh and Jeddah.

In total, there are at least three to four major companies in operation, including local startups offering both short-term and long-term digital rentals.

Parking Rules for Car Sharing Vehicles

Parking regulations for car sharing in Saudi Arabia are simple and transparent:

• In most areas, parking is free for car sharing users.
• In high-demand zones — such as business districts and airports — small additional fees apply, about 10–15 SAR (€2.5–4).
• Approved parking zones are displayed directly in the service app.
• If a user parks outside of an allowed zone, the fine is automatically charged to their account.

Car Sharing as a Transportation Alternative

Car sharing in Saudi Arabia has become a practical alternative to both private ownership and traditional public transport.
Ride-hailing services like Careem and Uber are well-developed, affordable, and convenient for short trips.
Public buses operate irregularly in many neighborhoods, and the Riyadh metro is still in its final construction phase.

In this context, flexible mobility options have become increasingly popular — many residents and visitors prefer renting a car for just a few hours or days.

Pricing, Comparison, and Rental Conditions

Car sharing in Saudi Arabia remains affordable, especially compared with Europe.
For reference: 1 EUR ≈ 4 SAR (as of July 2025).

Rental terms:

• Insurance is included in all services, but the deductible in case of an accident ranges from 1,000 to 3,000 SAR (~€250–750).
• Fuel is included in some plans or reimbursed with a receipt.
• In Ekar’s P2P model, pricing varies depending on the car owner.
• Daily packages are especially convenient for intercity trips.
• All operations are handled via the mobile app; payments can be made through credit cards, Apple Pay, or Google Pay.

Where You Can Drive a Car Sharing Vehicle in Saudi Arabia 

Users can drive within city limits or take intercity trips, provided their plan allows it.
For example, traveling from Riyadh to Jeddah is permitted, while cross-border trips are strictly prohibited.
Cars must be returned to the designated service zone or station — otherwise, a penalty applies.

Conclusion

Car sharing in Saudi Arabia is growing quickly and steadily.
It’s no longer just an istration, flexible pricing, and a wide choice of vehicles make these services appealing to both locals and visitors.

In the coming years, the market is expected to expand further with electric vehicles, digital keys, and deeper integration into MaaS ecosystems.
Saudi car sharing is becoming an example of how technology is reshaping driving habits, even in a country where personal vehicles have long symbolized freedom and status.