HomePortsKing Abdulaziz Port

    Shipping Cars to King Abdulaziz Port, Dammam

    Saudi Arabia · UN/LOCODE SADMM

    King Abdulaziz Port at Dammam on the Arabian Gulf is Saudi Arabia's largest port and the primary entry point for vehicles shipped into the Eastern Province, including Dammam, Al Khobar and Dhahran. Operated by the Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani), it handles both RORO and containerised vehicle imports from European carriers routing via the Suez Canal.. See our shipping to Saudi Arabia guide or request a quote.

    Services

    RORO, Container (FCL & shared)

    Transit Time

    18–24 days from Southampton via the Suez Canal to Dammam

    UK Ports

    Southampton, Tilbury

    Region

    Middle East

    Overview

    King Abdulaziz Port at Dammam on the Arabian Gulf is Saudi Arabia's largest port and the primary entry point for vehicles shipped into the Eastern Province, including Dammam, Al Khobar and Dhahran. Operated by the Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani), it handles both RORO and containerised vehicle imports from European carriers routing via the Suez Canal.

    Terminal & Vessel Facilities

    The port has dedicated vehicle terminals with covered and open storage yards, bonded zones for re-export cargo, and direct rail/road connections into the Eastern Province industrial corridor. Container vehicles are handled through the Saudi Global Ports container terminal, adjacent to the RORO berths.

    Typical Transit Time from the UK

    18–24 days from Southampton via the Suez Canal to Dammam.

    UK departure ports served: Southampton, Tilbury.

    Customs & Clearance Notes

    Saudi Customs (ZATCA) requires a SASO/SABER conformity certificate for vehicle imports, an import licence, and payment of 5% customs duty. Vehicles older than certain age thresholds set by Saudi vehicle-import regulations may require additional approvals, and full underbody/engine inspection for compliance is standard.

    Collection & Storage

    Free storage at Dammam is generally 5–7 days before demurrage begins. We work with SASO-registered clearing agents in the Eastern Province to prepare SABER certification and duty payment ahead of arrival, minimising storage exposure.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What certification do I need to import a car to Dammam?
    You need a SABER/SASO conformity certificate confirming the vehicle meets Saudi technical regulations, arranged through the SABER platform before the vessel arrives, alongside standard customs declarations.
    Is King Abdulaziz Port suitable for shipping to Riyadh?
    Yes, though Jeddah Islamic Port is closer to the west, Dammam is well connected by road and rail to Riyadh and the wider Eastern Province, and is often used for vehicles ultimately destined further inland.
    How much is import duty on a car shipped to Saudi Arabia?
    Standard customs duty on passenger vehicles is 5% of the assessed CIF value, though additional excise duties may apply to certain vehicle categories.
    What is the typical transit time from the UK to Dammam?
    Around 18 to 24 days via the Suez Canal route from Southampton, depending on carrier schedule and any transhipment through Jeddah or a Gulf hub port.