Buying a Car

Here are several websites to use when searching for a car to buy. Keep an eye out for ads by Star Market on the compound too.

Easiest to navigate, all in English, generally higher prices, ugly interface:

• http://www.expatriates.com/classifieds/jed/

Pretty nice, mix of Arabic and English, easy enough to use:

• http://saudi.dubizzle.com/en/makkah/home/

All in Arabic, frustrating to use, but best deals in town:

• www.haraj.com

Used cars:

• http://sa.sayaratcity.com/en/cars/u-used-cars-in-jeddah-c6

For purchase, you will need a Saudi driver’s license.

If you are buying used, the owner will have to assist you in switching ownership. There will be a registration fee, approximately 450sr, but could vary.

You will need to buy insurance as well. Liability runs about 500sr for the year, paid up front and about 2000sr per year for full coverage. You will do all of this with the previous owner.

Once all these steps are completed, you will have to leave your car at the dealership where you transferred ownership for at least 24hrs. This allows the transfer to be complete. Then you will be a proud car owner!