If you run a business in Saudi Arabia, you already know how important it is to have reliable drivers. Whether it’s for transporting goods, picking up clients, or supporting company operations, good drivers can make a big difference in keeping your business running smoothly. But how do you find and hire the right drivers?
In this blog post, we’ll explain everything you need to know about hiring drivers in Saudi Arabia — in a simple, clear, and professional way.
Why Hiring Good Drivers in Saudi Arabia Is So Important?
Let’s start with the basics. A driver is not just someone who takes you from point A to point B. In Saudi Arabia, drivers play many important roles. Here are a few examples:
- Company drivers help transport staff or executives to meetings or between office branches.
- Delivery drivers make sure that products get to customers on time.
- Heavy vehicle drivers operate trucks and trailers that carry construction materials or industrial goods.
- Personal drivers serve households and families by driving kids to school or helping with daily errands.
No matter the role, the driver you hire represents your company. They need to be responsible, polite, safe on the road, and familiar with Saudi traffic laws and routes. That’s why it’s important to choose the right person from the start.
Things to Know Before Hiring a Driver in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia has its own rules and systems for hiring workers — and drivers are no exception. Here are a few things you should keep in mind before starting your search:
1. Work Permits and Residency (Iqama)
If you’re hiring a foreign driver, they must have a valid work permit and Iqama. As an employer, you’ll be responsible for sponsoring their visa if they are coming from abroad. You also need to make sure their license matches the type of vehicle they will drive.
2. Driver’s License Requirements
Saudi Arabia has different licenses for different types of vehicles. For example:
- A private license is for personal vehicles.
- A public license is needed for taxis, company drivers, or delivery drivers.
- A heavy vehicle license is required for trucks or buses.
Make sure the driver you hire has the correct license — and that it’s valid in Saudi Arabia.
3. Familiarity with Local Roads
Saudi Arabia is a large country, with busy cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam. A good driver should know the local areas well — or be willing to learn fast using maps and navigation apps.
Where to Find Drivers in Saudi Arabia?
You have several options when it comes to finding drivers. Let’s take a closer look at each one:
1. Recruitment Agencies
Professional recruitment agencies in Saudi Arabia can help you find experienced drivers quickly. These agencies often:
- Pre-screen candidates
- Check driving records
- Help with paperwork and visa processes
This is a great choice if you want a hassle-free experience and high-quality candidates. Many agencies specialize in supplying drivers for companies in logistics, construction, or even VIP transport.
2. Online Job Portals
There are many websites where you can post job ads or browse driver profiles. Popular platforms include:
- Bayt
- Naukrigulf
- Indeed
- Saudi-specific apps like Haraj or Mudad
These are useful if you want more control over the hiring process and are willing to interview and evaluate drivers yourself.
3. Word of Mouth
Sometimes, the best drivers come through referrals. Ask your employees, friends, or industry contacts if they know someone reliable. This can help build trust and speed up the process.
What to Look for in a Good Driver?
Hiring the right driver is not just about checking their license. Here are some tips to help you choose the best person for the job:
1. Experience
Ask how many years they’ve been driving — and what kind of vehicles they’ve handled. A driver who has worked in a similar job before is likely to be more confident and dependable.
2. Clean Driving Record
Always check their history for traffic violations or accidents. A clean record means they are more likely to be careful and responsible on the road.
3. Knowledge of Safety Rules
Road safety is very important. Your driver should understand speed limits, road signs, and how to handle emergencies like tire blowouts or bad weather.
4. Good Communication
A driver who can speak basic Arabic or English is helpful — especially if they need to talk with clients, customers, or coworkers.
5. Polite and Professional Behavior
Drivers often deal with people from different backgrounds. They should be respectful, well-mannered, and presentable.
Interview Tips for Hiring Drivers in Saudi Arabia
Once you’ve found a few candidates, it’s time to interview them. Here are some questions you can ask:
- How long have you been working as a driver?
- What kind of vehicles do you have experience driving?
- Have you ever had an accident? If yes, what happened?
- How do you handle traffic jams or difficult situations on the road?
- Are you familiar with roads in [your city]?
- Can you work long hours or be available on weekends?
You can also give them a short test drive to see how they handle the vehicle and follow traffic rules.
Legal and Contract Considerations
Before your driver starts work, make sure everything is clear and legal. That includes:
- Employment contract: Clearly state salary, working hours, off days, and duties.
- Medical checkup: Make sure the driver is in good health, especially if they’ll be driving long hours.
- Insurance: If they are driving a company vehicle, make sure the insurance covers them.
- Driving license and Iqama copy: Keep updated copies in your records.
Benefits of Hiring Drivers Through a Manpower Agency in Saudi Arabia
In Saudi Arabia, many companies choose to work with licensed manpower agencies to handle driver recruitment. These agencies:
- Save you time and effort
- Offer replacements if a driver doesn’t work out
- Take care of visas and legal documents
- Provide drivers for short-term, long-term, or project-based needs
Manpower Supplier Agencies in Saudi Arabia like Yaqoot Manpower Services (depending on your region) can help you find drivers who are trained, tested, and ready to work.
Final Thoughts
Hiring a good driver in Saudi Arabia doesn’t have to be hard — but it does require planning, clear expectations, and the right checks. Whether you need a personal driver, a heavy truck operator, or a delivery driver, taking the time to choose the right person will save you trouble down the road.
Here’s a quick summary to remember:
- Make sure they have the right license and legal documents.
- Choose drivers with experience and a good attitude.
- Use trusted agencies or online platforms to find candidates.
- Do a short driving test and background check.
- Always have a clear contract in place.
With the right steps, you can hire a driver who helps your business grow and keeps your operations moving smoothly — one safe trip at a time.
Need help hiring drivers in Saudi Arabia?
Reach out to a trusted manpower agency in Saudi Arabia like the Yaqoot Manpower Services that understands local laws, has access to skilled candidates, and can manage all the paperwork for you. It’s the easiest way to find reliable drivers who are ready to hit the road.