Which Countries are a No-Go for RHD Vehicles
 

Trying to establish a definitive list of countries where driving through in a RHD is an absolute no-no while planning an RtW trip. Being UK based the pool of LHD motors is somewhat limited and whilst I'm not averse to sourcing in Europe(or paying the LHD premium that UK registered 4x4 seem to carry) - so RHD would make life easier, but equally I don't want to disqualify myself from being able to visit multiple interesting locations?

From what I've been able to establish thus far I understand the following won't let you through the borders

• Saudi Arabia
• Oman
• Costa Rica
• El Salvador
• Chile

Much of the source data is between 15 and 5 years old so wasn't sure whether the landscape had changed much. No unduly worried about instances where you are only given short transit windows or need CdP - keen to grasp where there is no chance of getting in and then I can adjust plans accordingly.
Many thanks in advance.

Here's a good start: https://www.horizonsunlimited.com/hu...w-right-101273

Another source: https://overlandingassociation.org/lhd-rhd/

As far as I know, countries which have signed "carnet accords" are supposed to accept any vehicle complying with the rules in its country of registration. Sometimes there are arguments (or attempts to extract facilitation payments), many times coming back after a change in agents or trying another border crossing have resulted in success. KSA has not yet signed up to allow carnets, and as far as I know does not permit RHD vehicles to drive in the country (you have to put the vehicle on a truck to transit).

I have read at least one, maybe two, reports of people managing to get into Saudi with LHD. Likely a fluke, as people occasionally get through the net, so to speak. But since pre-covid it sounds like Saudi was loosening tourist visits, I am hopeful that LHD vehicles may be allowed (since that is what I have).

LHD are allowed. RHD not.

To be clear - a LHD vehicle has the steering wheel on the left hand (LH) side - hence "Left Hand Drive" - LHD. It's usual to drive a LHD vehicle on the right hand side of the road. I offer apologies if this was understood.

Yes, you are of course totally correct, I mixed it up. :oops2:

So my post, but backwards :). I did read of 2x RHD getting through, but sounds like it was a fluke, not a new policy.

Today, many countries are gradually abandoning right-hand drive, considering it an improvement in road safety. But I think the right-hand drive does not affect the car's safety. The priority is to comply with the road rules and keep the vehicle in good working order. But it seems that the Israeli government disagrees with me. In such states, there is a fine on the use of cars, and it is established that the vehicle will be taken away from the owner. I know much about this topic because I read the news at https://zumroad.com/automotive. Perhaps this information will be useful to you as well.