Saudi Arabia Customs Regulations: A Comprehensive Guide

Saudi Arabia welcomes global visitors with its blend of unique culture and long-lasting history. The genuine hospitality of its local people adds to the allure of this country, making it a top-rated destination for international travelers. However, as a foreign tourist visiting Saudi Arabia, understanding and adhering to the country's customs regulations are paramount. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the intricacies of Saudi Arabia's customs regulations, exploring key aspects that businesses and individuals must be aware of to ensure seamless cross-border transactions.

Documentation Requirements - The Most Important Thing Regard Saudi Customs Regulations

One of the first steps in complying with Saudi customs regulations is to ensure that all necessary documentation is in order. Proper documentation not only expedites the customs clearance process but also helps prevent unnecessary delays and penalties.

The essential documents include:

• Commercial Invoice: A detailed invoice outlining the transaction, including the description of goods, unit prices, and total value.

• Bill of Lading or Airway Bill: For shipments arriving by sea or air, respectively, these documents provide details about the transportation of goods.

• Certificate of Origin: This document confirms the country of origin for the goods being imported and may be required for customs clearance.

• Packing List: A detailed list specifying the contents, quantity, and packaging of the shipment.

• Customs Declaration Form: This form provides information about the nature and value of the goods being imported.

• Import License: Certain goods may require an import license from relevant Saudi authorities.

Saudi customs regulations

Understanding Tariffs and Duties

Saudi Arabia, like many countries, imposes tariffs and duties on imported goods. The Saudi Customs Authority determines these fees based on the Harmonized System (HS) code classification of the goods. Importers should be aware of the applicable tariff rates for their specific products. Additionally, certain goods may be subject to additional taxes, such as the Value-Added Tax (VAT), which was introduced in Saudi Arabia in 2018.

It is crucial to work closely with customs brokers or logistics professionals who can provide guidance on tariff classifications and ensure accurate payment of duties to avoid any legal complications.

What is the new custom duty in Saudi Arabia?

In 2022, the Finance Minister and Chairman of the Zakat, Tax, and Customs Authority (ZATCA) in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (Saudi Arabia) released Decision No. 59334. This decision sanctions the increase of customs duties on various products with the aim of fostering and safeguarding domestic industries as well as supporting local agricultural products.

The new customs duties now increase from 6% to 25%, affecting a total of 99 Harmonized System (HS) codes covering a diverse array of products. The main categories of goods that are increased in customs duties include: 

• Live animals

• Fish

• Foodstuffs

• Organic chemicals

• Mineral products

• Plastics and plastic articles

• Glass and glassware products

• Aluminum products

• Machinery and mechanical appliances

• Vehicles

Saudi Customs Prohibited & Restricted Items

Saudi Arabia Airport Customs Regulations

The major international airports in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia include King Abd al-Aziz International Airport, King Khalid International Airport, and King Fahd International Airport. These airports are close to the cities of Jeddah, Riyadh, and Dammam. The regulations of customs procedures at these airports are managed by both The Department of Customs and the Ministry of Finance.

Keep reading to learn more about the duty-free allowance in accordance with Saudi Arabia's import requirements:

• Tobacco limit: 400 cigarettes.

• Cash limit: Any amount of currency is permitted for import. But amounts exceeding SAR60,000 or its foreign equivalent must be declared.

• Other goods: Personal effects and gifts to the value of SAR3000.

• Medication must be accompanied by a prescription.

Items Inhibited For Importation In Saudi Arabia

KSA customs prohibited items

Saudi Arabia has strict regulations regarding the importation of certain goods. KSA customs prohibited items for importation according to Saudi Law include:

• Alcohol: The country strictly prohibits the consumption, possession, manufacture, and distribution of alcohol. Restaurants refrain from serving alcoholic beverages, although there is relatively more flexibility within residential compounds for foreign expatriates, especially concerning home brewing. Nevertheless, engaging in activities such as smuggling or distilling alcohol in substantial quantities can lead to prosecution under Saudi law.

• Weapons

• Narcotics: The strict prohibition applies to all types and forms of drugs.

• Pigs and Pork Products

• Sexually explicit materials: While these materials might be acceptable in specific locations, in Saudi Arabia, they are considered "offensive" and inconsistent with Islamic beliefs.

• Equipment for Distilleries

• Fireworks encompass various explosive items such as firecrackers, cherry bombs, rockets, and other pyrotechnic materials.

Importers should thoroughly research and understand the list of prohibited and restricted items to avoid legal consequences and ensure a smooth customs clearance process.

What Items Are Restricted In Saudi Arabia?

Additionally, there are specific items that require special permission from bringing in Saudi Arabia, which include:

• Money exceeding SAR 60,000: Exceeding SAR 60,000 in cash, including local or foreign currency, checks, or bonds, requires a formal declaration.

• Medicine: It must be accompanied by the original packaging and a note or prescription from the doctor; Ministry of Health representatives may inspect it.

• Personal-use electronic equipment: Phones, modems, and radio transmitters may be scrutinized for potential "offensive" content.

• Pets: Bringing pets such as dogs or cats necessitates health and vaccination certificates approved by a Saudi Arabian Embassy or Consulate, with on-site inspection by a quarantine officer.

• If you want to import birds from Saudi Arabia, you must require a permit from the National Commission for Wildlife Conservation and Development.

• Weapons, ammunition, explosives, and blades are strictly forbidden unless permission is obtained from the Ministry of Interior.

Restricted items in Saudi Arabia

Customs Clearance Process

The customs clearance process in Saudi Arabia involves several steps, including document submission, inspection, and payment of duties. Importers can choose to handle the process independently or engage the services of licensed customs brokers to facilitate a smoother experience.

• Document Submission: All required documents must be submitted to the Saudi Customs Authority. Electronic submission is becoming increasingly common, streamlining the process and reducing paperwork.

• Goods Inspection: Customs officials may conduct inspections to verify the accuracy of the declared information and ensure compliance with regulations. It is essential to provide accurate and detailed information to avoid delays.

• Payment of Duties: Importers are required to pay the applicable tariffs, duties, and taxes before the goods are released. Timely payment is crucial to prevent storage charges and expedite the release of the shipment.

• Release of Goods: Once all requirements are met, customs issues a release order, then the goods are going to be transported to their final destination.

Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) Systems

Saudi Arabia has invested significantly in modernizing its customs procedures through the implementation of Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) systems. This digital platform allows for the electronic submission of customs documents, reducing the reliance on paper-based processes and expediting the clearance of goods.

Businesses engaged in frequent cross-border transactions are encouraged to integrate their systems with the EDI platform to enhance efficiency and reduce the risk of errors associated with manual document submission.

Saudi customs regulations comprise a comprehensive understanding of documentation requirements, tariff structures, and import restrictions. International travelers must stay updated about changes in regulations so that they will not be involved in any complications when passing the checkpoints at a Saudi airport.

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