Country Shipping Guide

Shipping to Saudi Arabia: Customs, Documents & Ports

Saudi Arabia is the Middle East's largest economy and a major importer of consumer goods, machinery, and food.

Country
Saudi Arabia
Region
Middle East
Currency
SAR
Major ports
SAJED, SADAM
Time zone
Asia/Riyadh

Saudi Arabia is the Middle East's largest economy and a major importer of consumer goods, machinery, and food. Jeddah Islamic Port serves the western region and Mecca pilgrimage trade, while Dammam/King Abdulaziz Port serves the eastern region. Vision 2030 is driving infrastructure development.

Customs in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Customs (ZATCA) requires all imports to be declared. Import duty is generally 5% (GCC tariff) but higher for some goods. 15% VAT applies. SABER conformity certification system mandatory for many products. Strict requirements for pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and food. Import license required for some goods.

Documents required for Saudi Arabia

  • Commercial Invoice (Arabic translation may be required)
  • Packing List
  • Bill of Lading or Air Waybill
  • Certificate of Origin (legalized)
  • SABER compliance certificate
  • SFDA registration (for food, pharmaceuticals)

Tips for shipping to Saudi Arabia

  • Jeddah serves western region; Dammam for east
  • SABER certification required for many products
  • Ramadan affects business operations significantly
  • Arabic documentation often required

Popular routes to Saudi Arabia

  • jeddah-singapore

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Frequently asked questions

What documents do I need to ship to Saudi Arabia?

Commercial Invoice (Arabic translation may be required), Packing List, Bill of Lading or Air Waybill, Certificate of Origin (legalized), SABER compliance certificate, SFDA registration (for food, pharmaceuticals)

How does customs work in Saudi Arabia?

Saudi Customs (ZATCA) requires all imports to be declared.