Step 1: the licence
Many nationalities can convert their home licence directly (the UAE, Saudi and most GCC states publish the eligible-country lists); others need driving school and a test. Sort this first — you cannot register or insure a car without a valid local licence.
Step 2: decide rent vs buy
If you are on a short contract or still settling in, rent for a month or two first — it teaches you the roads, the traffic culture and what car actually fits your life. Our rent-vs-buy guide walks through the math.
Step 3: choose the right first car
- GCC-spec only for a first purchase — simpler ownership, easier resale, better cooling for your first Gulf summer.
- Pick models with cheap, everywhere-available parts: mainstream Japanese and Korean sedans and SUVs dominate GCC roads for a reason.
- Budget for more than the price: insurance, registration transfer, Salik/darb tolls where they apply, and an immediate service if history is unclear.
- Get the pre-purchase inspection — as a new resident you don't yet have 'a guy', so pay a professional garage.
Step 4: own it smart
- Service on schedule — heat punishes skipped maintenance harder here than anywhere.
- Record your car's service history on Raftaar247 from day one — it protects your resale value when it's time to upgrade.
- Check tyre age, not just tread — heat ages rubber fast.
- Keep AC and cooling in top shape before every summer.
Written by the Raftaar247 team to help GCC car buyers and sellers. Found it useful? Read more guides.