For expatriates moving to Saudi Arabia, understanding the difference between temporary and permanent car imports is crucial. Making the right choice can save you money, time, and hassle-especially as regulations and duties differ significantly for each option. This guide breaks down the rules, duty exemptions, storage solutions, and compliance steps so you can confidently navigate your move.
Saudi Arabia offers two main pathways for bringing in foreign vehicles: temporary import (ideal for short-term stays or project work) and permanent import (for long-term residents or those planning to sell or keep the car in the Kingdom). Choosing the right approach affects your costs, legal compliance, and even your ability to drive the vehicle on Saudi roads.
Temporary imports are designed for expats, diplomats, and project workers on assignments lasting a few months up to two years. This method allows you to bring in your foreign-registered car for a set period without full Saudi registration.
Valid Residency and Documentation: You’ll need a valid iqama (residency permit) and passport.
Insurance: GCC-compliant insurance is mandatory. If your policy doesn’t cover Saudi Arabia, you’ll need to purchase extra coverage at the border, typically around SAR 300 per month.
Vehicle Age: Most vehicles must be under five years old unless classified as classic (over 30 years).
Temporary Permit: Issued at the border or port of entry, usually valid for six months and renewable up to two times (maximum 18 months total).
Border Runs: To extend the permit, you must exit and re-enter Saudi Arabia with the vehicle every six months.
| Fee Type | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Temporary Permit | SAR 300 |
| GCC Insurance (monthly) | SAR 200–500 |
| Border Exit/Re-entry | SAR 1,500 (est.) |
Temporary import is best for:
Project workers on contract assignments
Diplomats and embassy staff (often with additional duty exemptions and storage privileges)
Families testing relocation before committing long-term
A UAE resident moving to Riyadh for a one-year project can bring their Dubai-registered car and drive it in Saudi Arabia with Dubai plates, provided they exit the country every six months and maintain valid insurance. This approach avoids the 5% customs duty and 15% VAT required for permanent imports.
Permanent imports are for expats planning to stay for several years, classic car collectors, or anyone wishing to register and use their vehicle long-term in Saudi Arabia.
SASO Certification: All vehicles must comply with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) standards and obtain a Certificate of Conformity (COC) via the SABER platform. Learn more about the process in our SASO certification guide.
Vehicle Age: Under five years old for most cars, unless exempt as a classic (over 30 years).
Left-Hand Drive: Only left-hand drive vehicles are allowed.
Full Documentation: Title, bill of sale, passport/iqama, and import permit are required.
Duties and Taxes: 5% customs duty and 15% VAT on the car’s value, plus registration and plate fees.
Ship your vehicle using a climate-controlled container for maximum protection.
Register your import request on the ZATCA website and upload all required documents.
Pay customs duty, VAT, and SAR 300 for temporary plates.
Complete technical inspection and obtain SASO certification.
Register the car with the General Department of Traffic and obtain permanent Saudi plates.
| Fee Type | Typical Cost (SAR) |
|---|---|
| SASO Certification | 1,500 |
| Customs Duty (5%) | 5,000* |
| VAT (15%) | 15,000* |
| Registration | 300 |
Permanent import is ideal for:
Expats with long-term contracts or permanent residency
Classic and luxury car collectors
Businesses relocating fleets
Diplomatic Staff: Enjoy full duty and tax exemptions on temporary imports, with access to secure storage at King Abdullah Port and streamlined customs processing.
Corporate Expats: Must pay standard duties and taxes, but may qualify for bulk shipping discounts and expedited customs if importing multiple vehicles.
If you’re not ready to register your vehicle or need to store it between assignments, West Coast Shipping offers secure, climate-controlled storage at King Abdullah Port in Jeddah. Features include:
22°C/50% humidity vaults
24/7 security
On-site SASO pre-inspection services
Special rates for diplomatic missions and project teams
Learn more about our climate-controlled container and storage solutions.
Scenario: An expat imports a 2023 Toyota Land Cruiser (SAR 250,000 value) for a one-year assignment.
| Option | 1-Year Cost (SAR) |
|---|---|
| Temporary | 12,000* |
| Permanent | 68,300** |
**Includes duties, VAT, and registration.
Result: Temporary import saves over SAR 56,000 for short-term stays.
Assignment Length: Less than two years? Temporary import is usually cheaper and easier.
Vehicle Value: High-value or classic cars may be better suited for permanent import, especially if you plan to keep them in the Kingdom.
Compliance Needs: Modified or non-GCC vehicles are often easier to bring in temporarily, but permanent import requires strict compliance and SASO certification.
Storage Needs: Use our secure storage at King Abdullah Port if you need flexibility during your transition.
For a step-by-step breakdown of the permanent import process, see our complete Saudi Arabia car import guide.
Choosing between temporary and permanent car importation in Saudi Arabia depends on your assignment length, vehicle type, and long-term plans. Temporary imports offer flexibility and cost savings for short-term expats, while permanent imports provide security and compliance for those settling in for the long haul.
Contact West Coast Shipping for personalized advice, SASO certification support, and secure storage solutions tailored to your needs.