Modified & Performance Car Import To Saudi Arabia: Rules & Allowances

Shipping a modified, turbocharged, or performance car to Saudi Arabia in 2025 is possible—but only for vehicles that meet strict Gulf standards around emissions, bodywork, and safety. Whether you’re importing a factory performance model, sending a tuned sports car, or dealing with window tint or cosmetic upgrades, this guide offers an up-to-date look at what Saudi customs will accept, prohibit, or require you to alter before a vehicle can get on the road.

What Modifications Are Permitted When Importing to Saudi Arabia?

Saudi Arabia’s Traffic and Customs Authorities define clear-cut boundaries between acceptable performance equipment and prohibited modifications. The priorities: safety, emissions, and conformity with local traffic law.

Factory-Installed Turbo & Performance Packages

• Manufacturer-delivered sport and turbo models (BMW M, Mercedes-AMG, Audi RS, Ford ST, etc.) are generally approved, provided they haven’t been altered post-sale or “tuned” beyond factory performance specs.

• Modifications clearly supported by the original manufacturer are documented on the build sheet or VIN decode. Keep these ready for port review.

• Non-approved aftermarket turbocharger/supercharger conversions, NOS kits, or major engine tuning are strictly prohibited.

Window Tinting: The Official Rules

• Permitted on rear and side windows only, with up to 30% tint (must allow at least 70% light transmission).

• No windshield tint is allowed except for a factory sunstrip.

• Reflective films, ultra-dark tints, or decorative/colored films result in fines at customs or denial of registration.

• If importing with existing tint, be prepared to remove/replace any film that exceeds the Saudi standard.

For more on this and other compliance topics, consult our Saudi Arabia car shipping compliance guide.

Modifications That Require Prior Approval

Any significant deviation from original equipment mandates paperwork, pre-authorization, and could delay clearance:

• Engine swaps or conversions

• Performance modifications affecting emissions (aftermarket turbos, chips, ECUs)

• Non-factory suspension lifts/lowering kits

• Body kit installations that alter width, ground clearance, or bumper height

• Changes to vehicle color (especially to high-reflectance wraps or matte finishes)

• Lighting: aftermarkets that differ from GCC or SASO lamp/certification standards

Article 25 of Saudi Traffic Law requires a permit for “any modification of the vehicle’s structure, engine, chassis, color, or equipment.” Without written evidence of GCC compliance or a ministry exception, modified cars are typically refused at customs.

Emissions and GCC Compliance

• Every imported car (including tuned or modified) must pass the Saudi/GCC emissions and safety inspection at port.

• Aftermarket fuel system, forced induction, or exhaust changes may push the car out of “GCC Compliance” and result in a failed test.

• Tuning software or hardware affecting emissions, idle, or OBD-II readings will be flagged by inspection stations.

Non-Permitted Performance Upgrades

• Engine tunes or re-flash chips increasing stock power output

• Standalone or piggyback aftermarket ECUs

• Non-OEM turbo/supercharger installations on non-performance factory platforms

• NOS/nitrous installations, water/meth injection, or similar setups

• Aggressive lowering or lift kits substantially affecting handling/ride height

Gray Area: Cosmetic and Aftermarket Upgrades

While cosmetic upgrades—like wheels, paint, or interior mods—are generally less scrutinized, anything affecting crash safety, emissions, or driver visibility (e.g., oversize wings, roll cages, extreme stretch tires, or visual obstructions) can cause registration issues.

Registration and On-Road Use

• Vehicles that pass port/customs inspection with compliant modifications can be registered if they withstand the final MVPI (Motor Vehicle Periodic Inspection).

• Non-compliant modifications will require correction, or the car will not be licensed for Saudi roads.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I ship a US-tuned or race-prepped car for track use?

Only for off-road or private events—non-compliant vehicles can’t be registered.

What if I revert a modification before shipping?

As long as the car meets factory GCC spec at entry, it is considered compliant.

How strict are tint checks at customs?

Very—be prepared for customs to test and potentially demand removal of all non-compliant tint at port.

Be Road-Ready in Saudi Arabia

West Coast Shipping audits every vehicle for compliance before shipping, ensuring you meet both modification and documentation standards. For tailored advice, eligibility checks, and up-to-date regulatory coverage, visit our Saudi Arabia page or our 2025 Saudi car import modification guide.