Travelling in Saudi Arabia, whether for a pilgrimage, business trip, or leisure, can be an enriching experience. However, navigating transportation can sometimes feel overwhelming. Taxis offer a convenient and readily available solution, but ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey requires some planning. Here are 5 essential tips for booking a taxi in Saudi Arabia:
1. Choose Your Service:
- Traditional Taxis: These are widely available and often the most affordable option. However, they might not always be metered, so agree on a fare beforehand.
- Ride-Hailing Apps: Popular website alharamaintours.com operates in major cities like Jeddah and Riyadh. They offer convenience, transparency in pricing, and cashless payment options.
- Airport Taxis: Dedicated taxi services operate at airports, providing reliable transportation to your destination.
- Specialised Services: For specific needs, consider booking taxis catering to families (with car seats) or wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
2. Know Your Keywords:
Essential Arabic phrases like “وين رايح؟” (Where are you going?) and “كم السعر؟” (How much is the fare?) can be helpful in communicating with taxi drivers in taxi in makkah.
3. Negotiate the Fare (if applicable):
For traditional taxis, negotiate a fair price before your journey, especially at tourist spots. Consider factors like distance, time of day, and traffic conditions.
4. Download offline maps:
Having offline maps downloaded on your phone ensures you can track your journey even without internet access. This is particularly helpful in unfamiliar areas.
5. Consider booking in advance:
For peak seasons like Hajj and Umrah, pre-booking your taxi, especially for airport transfers or long journeys, is recommended to avoid last-minute delays and ensure availability.
Bonus Tip: Safety First:
- Choose well-maintained taxis with clear identification.
- Share your travel details with a trusted contact.
- Trust your instincts and opt for a different taxi if something feels off.
