Shipping a Car to Saudi Arabia from the UK: Guide & Costs

Saudi Arabia is a major market for vehicle imports from the United Kingdom, driven by expatriate relocations, luxury vehicle demand, and the Kingdom's massive infrastructure investment programmes.

Key factors for UK-to-Saudi vehicle shipping:
• Saudi Arabia drives on the right — right-hand-drive UK vehicles can be imported for personal use but may have restrictions on resale
• The Kingdom has specific age restrictions on imported vehicles
• Import duties are relatively modest compared to many Middle Eastern neighbours
• The Ship Cars operates weekly RORO services from Southampton to Dammam and Jeddah

For comparison, see our guide to shipping to Dubai, Saudi Arabia's nearest major shipping hub.

Saudi Arabia's vehicle import regulations are administered by Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organisation (SASO) and Saudi Customs:

Age restrictions: Vehicles must be no more than 5 years old from the year of manufacture. Vehicles older than 5 years are prohibited unless they are antique/classic vehicles (over 30 years old).

Left-hand drive preferred: While RHD vehicles can be imported, Saudi regulations strongly favour LHD. RHD vehicles may face additional scrutiny and potential limitations on registration.

SASO standards: All imported vehicles must comply with SASO vehicle standards, including GCC specifications for safety and emission standards.

Conformity certificate: A Certificate of Conformity from an accredited inspection body is required before shipping.

Documentation required:
• Original V5C or export certificate
• Bill of Lading
• Commercial invoice with declared value
• Certificate of Conformity
• Saudi Iqama (residence permit) for personal imports
• Passport copy

RORO Shipping:
• Cost: £1,300–£2,200 from Southampton
• Transit time: 18–24 days
• Ports: Dammam (East Coast), Jeddah (West Coast)

Container Shipping:
• Dedicated 20ft: £2,400–£3,800
• Shared container: £1,600–£2,800
• Transit time: 20–28 days

Saudi import costs (approximate):
• Customs duty: 5% of vehicle value
• VAT: 15% of (value + duty)
• Port handling: SAR 500–2,000
• Vehicle inspection: SAR 200–500
• Registration fees: SAR 500–1,500

Total landed cost for a typical vehicle: £2,500–£5,000 including all shipping, duties, and local charges. For pricing, try our cost calculator.

Clearing a vehicle through Saudi customs follows a structured process:

1. Appoint a customs broker: Mandatory for vehicle imports. The broker handles all documentation with Saudi Customs.
2. Document submission: Bill of Lading, invoice, conformity certificate, and residency documents are presented.
3. Vehicle inspection: Physical inspection at the port by customs and SASO inspectors.
4. Duty assessment: Customs calculates duties based on declared value.
5. Payment: All duties and VAT must be paid before release.
6. Vehicle registration: Register with the Traffic Department (Muroor) at your local office.

Clearing typically takes 5–10 business days. The Ship Cars works with trusted customs brokers in Dammam and Jeddah to expedite the process.

- Check the 5-year rule carefully: Vehicles older than 5 years will be refused entry (with the exception of 30+ year antiques)
• LHD is strongly recommended: While RHD is not outright banned, it creates complications for registration and resale
• Climate preparation: Saudi Arabia's extreme heat means ensuring coolant levels, tyre condition, and A/C systems are in good order
• Ramadan and holidays: Factor in extended processing times during religious holidays
• Marine insurance: Comprehensive all-risks cover is included as standard with The Ship Cars

Contact The Ship Cars for expert guidance on your Saudi Arabia shipment.