Saudi Car Import Ban List 2025: Manufacturers, Models, Modifications

Importing cars to Saudi Arabia in 2025 means adhering to an evolving set of rules regarding banned manufacturers, restricted vehicle types, and disallowed modifications. A dynamic regulatory environment—driven by the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO) and the Saudi Ports Authority (MAWANI)—means it’s more important than ever to confirm vehicle status before shipping. Below you’ll find the most up-to-date guidance on which makes, models, and modifications are prohibited, and what you can do to avoid port rejections and costly delays.

2025 Saudi Banned Manufacturer and Model List

Saudi authorities update their manufacturer eligibility roster annually, with 2025 introducing one of the broadest temporary bans in recent years. These bans center primarily on non-compliance with CAFE (Corporate Average Fuel Economy) and technical standard submissions.

Temporarily Banned Makes (2025)

As of 2025, vehicle imports are suspended from 21 automakers due to missing or incomplete CAFE compliance documentation required by Saudi regulators. Current bans target:

• Luxgen Motor Co., Ltd.

• Hawtai Motor Group

• Zotye International

• Higer Bus Company Limited

• Beijing Borgward Automotive Co., Ltd.

• Qoros Automotive Co., Ltd.

• Koenigsegg Automotive AB

• Lifan Industry (Group) Co., Ltd.

• Brilliance Auto International

• South East (Fujian) Motor Corp., Ltd.

• McLaren

• Tata Motors Ltd.

• CHTC Motor Co., Ltd.

• DFSK Motor Co. Ltd.

• SAIC-GM-Wuling Automobile Co., Ltd.

This suspension typically affects new cars under 3.5 tons, and applies to both individuals and commercial importers. The ban may be lifted after compliance documentation is supplied and certified by Saudi authorities. Because the list is dynamic, always verify brand-specific restrictions before you ship.

Permanently Prohibited Vehicle Categories

Beyond temporary bans, Saudi Arabia outright prohibits certain vehicles from import regardless of manufacturer or year:

Salvage/Total-Loss or Rebuilt Cars

• Flood-damaged or fire-damaged units

• Structurally compromised or tampered-VIN vehicles

• Cars with any record of being declared a total loss

Former Commercial Use Cars

• Police vehicles

• Former taxis, ride-share, or transport-fleet vehicles

• Car-rental company vehicles unless fully re-titled and inspected

Right-Hand Drive (RHD)

• Only left-hand drive vehicles are permitted for use on Saudi roads. No exceptions for modern passenger imports; rare exceptions exist for show or museum display classics (with disciplinary registration, not road use).

Converted or Non-Factory Steering

• Vehicles converted post-manufacture from RHD to LHD, or with altered steering/safety configurations, are not accepted.

Unsafe Modifications

• Major modifications that undermine factory crashworthiness, safety, or emissions compliance (e.g., structural frame changes, non-OEM powertrains, excessive body kits, or transformer-style conversions).

Modification Bans and SASO Compliance

Besides banning certain makes and models, Saudi authorities closely monitor allowed modifications. Imports with unauthorized modifications—especially engine swaps, unapproved performance upgrades, and illegal window tint—are routinely rejected or required to revert to compliant status.

Disallowed Modifications:

• Post-factory turbocharging or supercharging not specified by the original manufacturer

• Window tint exceeding regulated transmission and reflectivity, or improper film types

• Engine or transmission swaps that break emissions or GCC homologation

• Height changes (excessive lift/lowering outside of legal specification)

• Unsafe aftermarket lighting or electrical additions not tested by SASO

Best Practice: Review the Saudi car import compliance rules and eligibility checker for permitted modifications and see the main regulations on the 2025 Saudi Car Import Guide.

Fast Compliance FAQ

Can I ship a McLaren or Koenigsegg to Saudi in 2025?

Currently suspended due to non-compliance; check CAFE/SASO portal before booking.

If I “restore” a salvage car to like-new, can I import it?

No—any car ever titled as salvage, rebuilt, or flood-damaged is barred from import.

Are modifications allowed if I have U.S. DOT/EPA papers?

SASO and GCC standards are separate—factory configuration is safest for approval.

Are all right-hand drive vehicles banned?

Yes, unless imported exclusively for exhibition (not road use) as a 30+ year old classic.

Ready to Ship a Car to Saudi Arabia?

West Coast Shipping helps clients navigate Saudi Arabia’s complex eligibility landscape, offering brand, model, and compliance checks as part of every shipping consultation. Don’t risk a costly rejection—get compliance-verified, up-to-date advice for all shipments to the Kingdom. Learn more and get a quote at our Saudi shipping guide and review vehicle-specific rules on our 2025 ban list, LHD, and EV compliance article.