Ensuring you have every required document is the single most important step to a successful car import into Saudi Arabia. Missing paperwork can delay customs release, drive up storage costs, or even force re-export. Here’s what you need to clear customs, register locally, and avoid costly mistakes in 2025.
For a full step-by-step overview, costs, timelines, and shipping options, see our main Saudi 2025 import guide. For exact route and compliance quotes, use West Coast Shipping’s Saudi Arabia portal.
This must be the lien-free (or otherwise released) U.S. title with the owner’s name matching export documents. If financed or previously under a lien, attach a formal lien release letter.
Proof of purchase value. List buyer/seller information, VIN, make, model, year, and full sales price.
Needed for any shipping agent or broker who will act on your behalf with U.S. Customs or Saudi authorities.
International shippers: Copy of the owner’s valid passport.
U.S. shippers: EIN letter from the IRS.
Filed electronically, this is mandatory U.S. export paperwork for every international vehicle shipment.
All incoming vehicles require a SASO CoC, confirming the car meets Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) standards. This is obtained through the SABER platform before shipping, and involves:
VIN, make, model, photos, and specification submission
SAR ~1,500 (≈$400) fee per car
Review and physical inspection upon arrival for high-risk vehicles
Each shipment needs its own SASO certificate—even for batch or consolidated shipments.
Register your shipment on the ZATCA website and upload all required vehicle and personal documents before shipping.
Submit customs declaration and pay assessed duties (5%–15% depending on vehicle type/classification) plus 15% VAT.
Bill of Lading (B/L) from the ocean carrier/shipping agent
Packing list (if shipping items in a container)
Certificate of Origin if requested (for some regions/cases)
Proof from customs that all duties, VAT, and prior paperwork have been accepted.
After arrival, obtain an inspection at a Saudi MVPI station confirming GCC compliance, emissions, safety, and VIN matching.
Original title and bill of sale
Customs Bayan
SASO CoC
Owner ID/Iqama/passport copy
Inspection/MVPI certificate
Local Saudi car insurance document (mandatory before registration)
Copy of Saudi driver’s license (sometimes required)
Copy of temporary or permanent plates paperwork
Riyadh Example: Registration may be subject to a plate subscription fee (SAR 200–600+), emission class, engine size, and local annual regulatory changes. Always consult with registration agents or the city’s licensing office before arrival for current requirements.
GCC nationals may import up to two eligible vehicles/year.
Expat importers (residents) must present a Saudi Iqama (residence permit) and driver’s license.
Dealer/bulk imports require additional commercial registration and authorizations.
| Document | Required/Optional | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Original Title (lien-free/released) | Required | |
| Bill of Sale/Invoice | Required | |
| Power of Attorney (if agent is used) | Required | |
| Owner ID (passport/EIN/Iqama) | Required | |
| AES/SED Export Filing | Required | |
| SASO/SABER CoC | Required | Apply before port release |
| Shipping Bill of Lading | Required | |
| Customs Declaration/Bayan | Required | Obtain at arrival |
| MVPI Inspection Certificate | Required | At Saudi MVPI center |
| Saudi Car Insurance (local) | Required | Before registration |
| City Registration Forms | Required |
Regional or by plate office |
With document requirements and regulatory rules evolving each year, it’s critical to work with a team familiar with both U.S. and Saudi customs and registration processes. See our main Saudi guide or get instant route compliance advice through West Coast Shipping’s Saudi Arabia team.