So, you’ve landed in Saudi Arabia—or maybe you’ve been here for a while—and there it is, staring at you from the horizon: the ultimate modern desert dilemma.

Should you rent a car or buy one?

It’s a bit like asking whether you should buy a camel or just borrow one when needed (minus the fur and attitude). Let's dive into this modern transportation showdown and help you make the smartest decision for your wheels—and your wallet.

Round 1: The Big Spender vs. The Budget Boss

Buying a Car in KSA

Let’s not sugarcoat it. Buying a car is a flex, but also a financial commitment that makes your bank account flinch. Let’s say you’re eyeing something basic and reliable—like a Changan Alsvin. That’s around SAR 45,000, plus registration, insurance, and a 20% down payment that’s almost as painful as your gym membership after New Year’s resolutions.

Break it down:

• Down Payment: ~SAR 9,000
• Insurance: ~SAR 2,000
• Registration: ~SAR 500
• Monthly EMIs: Yep, they’re now your new roommate.

Renting a Car

Now enter: Selfdrive KSA, the cool cousin of car ownership. With daily rentals starting as low as SAR 85 and monthly rentals from around SAR 1,200, you can drive without coughing up your life savings.

No down payments. No paperwork parties. Just book, drive, and vibe.

Round 2: The Ongoing Hustle vs. The All-Inclusive Chill

When You Own

Owning a car is like being in a long-term relationship—you need to show up for oil changes, service appointments, tire swaps, and unexpected breakdowns at the worst possible moment. Plus, you’re on the hook for:

• Annual insurance renewal
• Car registration renewal
• Tyre tantrums
• Brake drama
• “Why is it making that sound?” moments

When You Rent

With a Selfdrive car rental, you’re basically dating the car without any of the drama. The rental covers:

• Insurance
• Maintenance
• Registration
• Roadside assistance (yes, they rescue you)

You just drive, drop, and switch when you want something new.

Round 3: The Flex Game

Own It

Ownership gives you ultimate freedom. Drive wherever, whenever, however long you like—until the day your car breaks down during a sandstorm and your mechanic is on holiday. That’s part of the game.

Rent It

With car rental from Selfdrive KSA, you get ultimate flexibility. Need a snazzy sedan for meetings in Riyadh this week? Great. Want an SUV for a desert glamping weekend in AlUla? Done.

No long-term commitment. Just pure, situational car freedom. Swipe right on your perfect ride, anytime.

Round 4: The Sneaky Costs

Owning Means Depreciation

That shiny car you just bought? It’s losing value faster than your New Year’s resolutions. In KSA, vehicles can depreciate up to 20% in the first year and 50% by year five. Selling it later? You might be in for a price drop that’ll make your heart skip a beat.

Renting Means Zero Depreciation

With Selfdrive, depreciation is not your problem. The cars are maintained by us. You don’t have to think about resale value. Drive it, enjoy it, return it. Rinse and repeat.

Scorecard: Let’s Get Nerdy

But Wait—What’s the Catch?

Honestly? Not much. The only downside to renting with Selfdrive is that you might get too used to the convenience. Switching cars for different moods and needs? Dangerously satisfying. No more workshop weekends or registration reminders? Feels like magic.

Plus, renting makes a lot of sense if:

• You’re new to KSA or here on a short-term contract
• You love variety and hate commitments
• You want to avoid giant financial holes
• You prefer everything handled through an app (yes, you can book with Selfdrive in just a few taps)

Still Thinking? Here’s the TL;DR:

Own a car if:

• You’ll be using it every single day for years
• You’re ready for the costs, responsibilities, and long-term commitment
• You love one car and want to grow old with it

Rent a car if:

• You like flexibility and variety
• You’re in KSA temporarily or trying to figure things out
• You want a predictable, all-inclusive monthly price
• You’d rather not deal with car paperwork ever again

Final Thoughts

Owning a car is like signing a long-term lease on adulting. Renting one? It’s like using a VIP pass to life—drive what you want, when you want, with none of the baggage.

So, if you’re ready to save money, skip the stress, and still show up in style - Selfdrive KSA is your ride-or-die (minus the dying part).

Visit Selfdrive KSA and book your next ride in minutes. Your wallet—and your weekend plans—will thank you.

Call us at +966 11 520 1319 or download the SelfDrive App now to book your next ride. Experience Saudi Arabia with the freedom you deserve!

Disclaimer: Prices and offers mentioned are as of 2025 and may change. Please check official sites and apps for the latest details.