Car Import Guide to Saudi Arabia
A comprehensive guide covering all aspects of importing cars to Saudi Arabia. From basic requirements to completing customs procedures.
Import Process Overview
Importing cars to Saudi Arabia is an organized process that requires compliance with official requirements and Saudi specifications. The process starts from selecting the appropriate car in the source country and ends with its registration at the Saudi traffic department.
The process involves several main stages: eligibility verification, document collection, shipping arrangement, customs clearance, obtaining required certificates, and paying fees and taxes.
Benefits of Car Import
- ✓Access to models not available locally
- ✓Cost savings compared to local purchase in some cases
- ✓Wider selection of models and specifications
- ✓Full control over purchase and inspection process
Import Timeline
- Week 1-2:Eligibility verification and document collection
- Week 2-4:Shipping arrangement
- Week 4-10:Actual shipping (sea)
- Week 10-11:Customs clearance and obtaining SASO certificate
- Week 11-12:Traffic department registration and car delivery
Requirements
Learn about the basic requirements for importing cars to Saudi Arabia
Steps
Step-by-step import process
Shipping
Information about shipping cars from abroad
Customs and VAT
Details about customs duties and VAT
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the complete car import process to Saudi Arabia?
The import process includes: verifying eligibility and specifications, obtaining required documents (Certificate of Origin, Bill of Sale, Inspection Certificate), arranging shipping from source country, customs clearance at Saudi ports, obtaining SASO certification, paying customs duties and VAT (5% customs + 15% VAT), and finally registration with traffic department.
How long does it take to import a car to Saudi Arabia?
Typically takes 4-6 weeks from USA and 3-4 weeks from Europe. Duration depends on source location, shipping method (sea or air), customs clearance time, and obtaining SASO certification. Sea shipping takes 2-4 weeks while air shipping takes 1-2 weeks.
What are the total costs involved in importing a car?
Costs include: car price, shipping costs (5,000-15,000 SAR depending on source), customs duties (5% of car value + shipping), VAT (15% of value after customs), SASO certification fees (1,500-3,000 SAR), customs clearance fees (500-1,500 SAR), and registration fees. Total additional costs are typically 25-35% of car value.
Can I import any car model to Saudi Arabia?
No, the car must comply with Saudi specifications. Cars must be less than 5 years old, in good condition, and meet Saudi emissions and safety standards. Some models may be prohibited if not compatible with local specifications.
What documents are required for car import?
Essential documents include: Certificate of Origin, original Bill of Sale, Inspection Certificate, driving license, passport, national ID or residency permit, and official power of attorney if importing through an agent. Additional documents may be required depending on car type and source country.
Do I need SASO certification for imported cars?
Yes, SASO (Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization) certification is mandatory for all imported cars. It must be obtained before registration with traffic department. The certificate proves the car complies with Saudi specifications and typically costs 1,500-3,000 SAR.
What are the customs duties and VAT rates?
Customs duties are 5% of car value plus shipping cost. VAT is 15% calculated on total value after adding customs duties. For example, for a car worth 100,000 SAR with 10,000 SAR shipping: Customs = 5,500 SAR, VAT = 17,325 SAR.
Can I import a car older than 5 years?
No, the general rule is that the car must be less than 5 years old from manufacturing date. There are limited exceptions for classic or historically valuable cars, but they require special approvals and additional documentation. It is recommended to verify current requirements before importing.