Short term - less than 12 - 18 months - then renting. Most reliable small cars (Corolla, Mazda 3, Honda Civic, etc.) with a reputable company will charge about 1700 - 1800 riyals/month.
Longer term - reliable second hand model of those listed above. Toyotas and Nissans have arguably the higher resale value (when you go to leave) and higher 2nd hand price to pay (when you buy). Primary reasons for this, that while they are plentiful, they are very good value for money, maintenance is available everywhere, parts are available and repair people are very familiar with them.
Tips: Buy from either someone you know (and trust) who is leaving; generally buy from a Western expat as they tend (not always) to have their vehicles serviced regularly and by qualified mechanics usually at the dealer. Ask for a full service history (written documentation that the car has been getting its regular maintenance); take it to a mechanic to have it inspected and ask the traffic department if it has ever been in an accident. All things you would do at home when buying a used car. Generally, buying in the spring (April/May/June) will give you a bigger choice as that is when most expats are starting to sell before they leave the country.
Short term - less than 12 - 18 months - then renting. Most reliable small cars (Corolla, Mazda 3, Honda Civic, etc.) with a reputable company will charge about 1700 - 1800 riyals/month.
Longer term - reliable second hand model of those listed above. Toyotas and Nissans have arguably the higher resale value (when you go to leave) and higher 2nd hand price to pay (when you buy). Primary reasons for this, that while they are plentiful, they are very good value for money, maintenance is available everywhere, parts are available and repair people are very familiar with them.
Tips: Buy from either someone you know (and trust) who is leaving; generally buy from a Western expat as they tend (not always) to have their vehicles serviced regularly and by qualified mechanics usually at the dealer. Ask for a full service history (written documentation that the car has been getting its regular maintenance); take it to a mechanic to have it inspected and ask the traffic department if it has ever been in an accident. All things you would do at home when buying a used car. Generally, buying in the spring (April/May/June) will give you a bigger choice as that is when most expats are starting to sell before they leave the country.
Hope this helps.