Getting around Saudi Arabia and buying a car

Hi Smith, you'll find that the best means of getting around Saudi Arabia is with a car, and most expats living there purchase their own vehicle or rely on a personal driver. Unfortunately, you've heard correctly - women are not allowed to drive a car in Saudi Arabia, so your wife will have to rely on you, a driver or a taxi for getting around. This can obviously be a bit of a frustration, and may require quite a bit of planning and coordination, but it's something that most expats eventually get used to. Most expats make contact and have the details of a trusted and reliable driver who they can phone when needed.  If you're to be living in a compound, then your wife will probably also have access to transport through your residence, as most compounds provide a shuttle or bus service for women to get to the shops and for trips to and from school for the kids. 

Have a read of our Transport and Driving in Saudi Arabia section for more about this.

You'll definitely need a car - public transport in Saudi Arabia is not very comprehensive or reliable! Taxis are ok, but can be expensive. Most expats have their own car, and quite a luxutious one too!

Thanks guys for the advice. I'll be sure to check out the link. It's a huge decision we are making, and there is so much to consider. All a bit stressful really!