This guide details the steps to follow when driving between Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain.
Here's what you need to know for a smooth trip:
- Clear Outstanding Bills: Ensure you have no outstanding dues for electricity, water, and telephone bills in Kuwait. Settle any payments to avoid potential delays at the border.
- Visas: You'll need a Saudi Arabia visa [Apply Visa Here] & also Bahrain visa [Apply Visa Here]. Check if you qualify for one on arrival or apply beforehand (especially if you're not a GCC citizen). Don't forget this crucial step!
- Car Check: Make sure your car is in tip-top shape and meets Bahrain's driving rules. Double-check registration, insurance, and all required documents. Don't forget a valid Saudi traffic sticker and insurance!
- Map It Out: Plan your route and consider using a GPS and map to stay on track. Check for road closures, construction, or travel advisories before you head out.
- Pack Smart: Pack essentials like food, water, a first-aid kit, flashlight, and a spare tire. Don't forget your passport, visa, and car documents!
- Border Buildup: Be prepared for potential delays at the border. Have all your paperwork readily available for inspection. Pro tip: Avoid peak travel times (Thursdays after 11 am and Fridays/Saturdays) to dodge long queues (up to 4-5 hours!).
Crossing by Car
Kuwait to Saudi Arabia:
- Kuwait Exit:
- Show documents (driver's license, vehicle registration) at the Kuwait border.
- Proceed through passport control and immigration.
- Saudi Entry:
- Undergo biometric verification (fingerprints, photo).
- Submit documents and collect clearance slips at designated points.
- Keep all checkpoint slips for verification at subsequent checkpoints.
- Pay for temporary vehicle insurance (valid for your stay).
- Final clearance is granted after vehicle inspection.
Saudi Arabia to Bahrain:
- Saudi Exit:
- Hand over documents (license, registration) for clearance.
- Bahrain Entry:
- Pay the causeway toll.
- Go through immigration and obtain a visa (if needed).
- Expect a customs check and possibly purchase new car insurance.
Bahrain to Saudi Arabia:
- Bahrain Exit:
- Pay the causeway toll again.
- Obtain a vehicle clearance slip.
- Pass through passport control and potentially a vehicle inspection.
- Saudi Entry:
- Show documents for registration and receive a Saudi customs slip.
Saudi Arabia to Kuwait:
- Saudi Exit:
- Provide vehicle registration for a Saudi customs slip.
- Pass through passport control and exit processing.
- Kuwait Entry:
- Show passports and IDs for entry.
- Submit the Saudi customs slip and receive a Kuwaiti one.
- A final vehicle inspection is conducted before entering Kuwait.
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