Saudi Arabia enforces one of the Middle East’s strictest vehicle age rules for permanent car imports. Understanding which models are eligible—and which special exemptions exist for classics—can be the difference between a seamless port release and expensive, last-minute rejection. Here’s what you need to know for successful importing in 2025.
For a step-by-step cost and document guide, see our 2025 Saudi import overview. For shipping calculator and instant quotes, use West Coast Shipping’s Saudi page.
Saudi Arabian customs require that passenger cars, SUVs, and light trucks (under 3.5 tons) be manufactured within five years of the year of import (i.e., for 2025, model year 2020 or newer is typically eligible). The age is calculated from the date of manufacture, excluding the year of current import (per current ZATCA guidance, search “Vehicle Import Guide”).
Key detail: This rule covers both new and used vehicles, whether imported from the United States, GCC, or other global regions.
Heavy transport trucks (over 3.5 tons), including semis, must also be manufactured within the most recent five years, but are assessed on operational life from the first of January of their year of production. Separate, stricter documentation and compliance may apply.
Classic/antique vehicles—cars and motorcycles manufactured over 30 years before the current year—are exempt from the 5-year rule. These vehicles must:
Be verified by manufacturing date (not just model year)
Be in original/unmodified configuration
Pass a documentation and condition review for authenticity
Not be used for everyday driving if marked as “antique”—in most cases, such vehicles cannot legally drive on public Saudi roads
Right-hand drive
Salvage, rebuilt, or heavily modified from original
Police, taxi, or public utility conversions
If failing SASO (Saudi Standards) or environmental/economy compliance
Always confirm your VIN, title status, and compliance before booking shipping.
Check VIN documentation: Date of manufacture must be provable on the U.S. title or built-in factory plate
Include a factory build sheet or origin certificate for added verification
Use vehicle age calculators available through Saudi customs agents or have your exporter provide a compliance sheet
If your car does not meet the 5-year threshold and isn’t a true classic, Saudi customs are required to refuse entry at port, sometimes resulting in expensive return shipping or local scrappage.
GCC citizens may bring in up to two vehicles a year. Vehicles imported on a temporary permit (e.g., expat assignments, temporary residency) have separate rules—contact Saudi customs for latest requirements, but know they usually require six-month renewal/exit runs and full compliance for conversion to permanent import.
| Vehicle Type | Age Limit | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Standard passenger | ≤5 years | Must show VIN/manufacture date |
| Commercial truck | ≤5 years | Counted from Jan 1 of manufacture |
| Classic/antique (car) | 30+ years | Exempt from age—but not all fees |
If you are unsure, have West Coast Shipping confirm eligibility using your title/VIN before booking.
Now that you know whether your vehicle qualifies under Saudi Arabia’s 5-Year Rule, you’re ready to ship your car to Saudi Arabia with West Coast Shipping. Get a fast quote and start your 2025 shipment today.