Exporting used cars from the UAE to Saudi Arabia has become common due to the availability of a wide range of GCC spec models and the reasonable prices of the UAE’s competitive market. Understanding the whole process is necessary, regardless of whether you're a seller wishing to import multiple vehicles or a personal buyer in Saudi Arabia.
This guide is intended to cover all Saudi import conditions, vehicle eligibility, export processes, required paperwork, customs charges, VAT charges, and final registration in Saudi Arabia. Go through the complete article to efficiently understand the entire legal process of used car export UAE to Saudi Arabia in 2025.
Saudi Vehicle Import Conditions in 2025
You must understand all the rules imposed by the Saudi authorities before exporting a used car from the UAE. Two noteworthy authorities monitor the import of vehicles into Saudi Arabia:
- ZATCA (Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority) governs customs duties, taxes, and clearance.
- SASO (Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organisation) makes sure that cars adhere to safety and environmental laws.
These authorities work together to ensure that all cars shipped from the UAE to Saudi Arabia stick to registration laws, age restrictions, and technical requirements.
1. Import Eligibility by Vehicle Type
Saudi Arabia doesn’t allow all cars for import. So, you have to confirm that the car you have chosen is eligible for import. The following is the age restriction for different categories of vehicles:
- Passenger Cars and Light Trucks: They must be at least 5 years old. This ensures that there are many modern, safe cars on Saudi roads.
- Heavy Trucks and Buses: They should be 10 years of age or less, then permitted to maintain the commercial fleet's effectiveness and roadworthiness.
- Motorcycles: Smaller bikes are not allowed; they must be at least 5 years old and have an engine capacity of 125cc or more.
- Heavy Equipment: Eligible up to 15 years old, since agricultural and construction equipment often has a longer service life.
Due to these restrictions, it is necessary to confirm the model year of the car before buying it for export purposes.
2. Classic Vehicles
Saudi Arabia permits the import of classic cars under specific restrictions for enthusiasts who are interested in rare or classic models. These regulations include:
- The vehicle must be at least 30 years old.
- It cannot be significantly modified and needs SASO approval.
- Unless specifically permitted, these vehicles are generally only used for collections or exhibitions and are not permitted for regular use on public roads.
So, if you’re planning a used car export UAE to Saudi Arabia for a collector’s item, make sure to get prior clearance.
3. Prohibited Imports
Saudi authorities strictly prohibit certain vehicles, regardless of age or condition. You must be aware of these bans. The following cars are not allowed:
Vehicles older than the allowed age limit
- Salvage, flood, or fire-damaged cars
- Left-hand drive vehicles (Saudi Arabia uses right-hand drive only)
- Cars with a taxi, police, or rental history
- Cars with odometer tampering or chassis modifications
If you export vehicle from Dubai to Saudi Arabia that falls under these restricted categories, customs will reject it outright.
4. General Conditions
Even if a vehicle meets the eligibility criteria for import, there are certain general rules for it:
- Must be GCC-spec, i.e., designed for the Gulf climate and standards.
- Must pass a technical inspection before registration.
- Importers must be 18 years or older.
- A SASO Certificate of Conformity (CoC) issued via the SABER platform is compulsory for customs clearance.
This guarantees that only high-quality, safe, and region-appropriate vehicles are allowed into Saudi Arabia.
Vehicle Export Options from the UAE
When planning for your used car export from UAE to Saudi Arabia, you’ll have to decide how to move the car across the border. There are two main options, i.e., self-drive or shipping via land transport.
1. Self-Drive Export
This is the most popular option for buyers who want hands-on experience. The route takes you from the UAE into Saudi Arabia directly across the border with temporary export plates. This method is cost-effective and gives the driver full authority over the journey.
Required Documents:
- Saudi ID/Iqama
- Saudi Driving License
- Export Passing Certificate
- Temporary Export Insurance
- RTA Export Fee Receipt
Self-driving to export vehicle from Dubai to Saudi Arabia is the best option for those preferring flexibility.
2. Land Transport Export (via Shipping Company)
If you can’t drive by yourself, you can use a licensed shipping company or transporter. This is the best option for bulk shipments or buyers not familiar with the UAE-Saudi border procedures.
Required Documents:
- Saudi ID/Iqama
- Transporter License
- Export Passing Certificate
- RTA Export Fee Receipt
Hiring a professional makes car shipping UAE to Saudi Arabia easier and ensures all documentation is correctly handled.
Documents Required at the UAE Customs Border
Whatever option you choose to export the car, UAE customs require proper documentation to permit the vehicle to exit legally. Without these, your export passing certificate UAE and clearance will not be issued.
1. Commercial Invoice / Export Invoice
This invoice, issued by the seller, includes important details. This includes Vehicle specs. i.e., make, model, year, VIN, value, Buyer details, Origin (UAE), and destination (Saudi Arabia). It makes the basis of customs duty calculations on the Saudi side.2. Export Declaration
This document is compulsory for clearance and an exit certificate. This is issued by the UAE customs.
- Self-Drive Export: Clearance agencies at the border type the declaration.
- Transporter Export: Submitted via online portals like Dubai Trade, Abu Dhabi Customs, or Sharjah e-services.
This declaration is a key step in vehicle export UAE to Saudi Arabia.
3. Export Certificate
The Export Certificate issued by RTA permits the vehicle's shipment and deregisters it in the UAE. This certificate is necessary, and without this, you aren't allowed to pass customs.
Post-Arrival in Saudi Arabia: Customs & Registration
The process isn't finished when the car enters Saudi Arabia. Customs duties, inspections, and registration procedures must be finished by importers before the vehicle is permitted to be driven on Saudi roads.
1. Customs Clearance
You will be required to submit your invoice, bill of landing, and export certificate. You will also have to pay a Customs Duty of 5% of the vehicle’s claimed value and 15% VAT (calculated on vehicle value + customs duty).
Once you have cleared, you receive the Import Declaration and Customs Clearance Certificate. This step is a must for any used car export UAE to Saudi Arabia.
2. Technical Inspection (Fahas)
The car must pass inspection at MVPI (Motor Vehicle Periodic Inspection) centers to ensure it meets emissions and safety restrictions. If the car's technical examination is unsuccessful, there will likely need to be delays and improvements before clearance.
3. Insurance & Registration
Final registration requires getting car insurance in Saudi Arabia. This stage includes submitting all the documents via the Absher portal and receiving your Istimara (vehicle registration card) and number plate.
After approval, you get your Saudi Arabia license plates and registration card. Now, the exported vehicle from Dubai to Saudi Arabia is totally legal for Saudi roads.
Breakdown of Customs Duty and VAT
Understanding customs duties and VAT when exporting a used car from the UAE to Saudi Arabia is necessary. To avoid unwanted surprises, here’s an example of cost calculation:
- Vehicle Value: AED 50,000
- Customs Duty (5%): AED 2,500
- VAT (15% on value + duty): AED 7,875
- Total Cost to Importer: AED 10,375
Adding these costs to your budget ensures a smooth experience of car shipping UAE to Saudi Arabia.
Approved UAE–Saudi Border Crossings in 2025
The UAE and Saudi Arabia share multiple border crossings. Choosing the right shipment route for used car export UAE to Saudi Arabia is an important part of the planning process. The best choice depends on your origin in the UAE and your destination in Saudi Arabia.
- Al Batha / Al Ghuwaifat: It’s the most common crossing, connecting Abu Dhabi to Riyadh/Dammam.
- Al-Khuraimat / Al Faya: From Al Ain to Riyadh via the Haradh route.
- Al-Tawiya: It's convenient for Fujairah to Eastern Province shipments
These border crossings are the leading gateways to export vehicles from UAE to Saudi Arabia.
Final Advice for Saudi Buyers
Exporting a car seems complicated, but by following the right advice, a used car export UAE to Saudi Arabia is straightforward. Keep these tips in mind:
- Ensure GCC-Spec compliance before paying for a car because only these are eligible for registration in Saudi Arabia. You should confirm this before purchase to avoid rejection at the border.
- Verify the SASO CoC via SABER because it ensures the car meets Saudi standards. Otherwise, customs clearance won’t be possible.
- Choosing a licensed customs broker can deal with paperwork, declarations, and clearance, saving time and stress.
- Along with 5% duty, plan for 15% VAT because it is mandatory on all imports. So, include it in your budget.
- Get SASO pre-approval for classic cars that are 30 years or older before export.
With these practices and by following the Saudi car import rules 2025, your vehicle export UAE to Saudi Arabia can be cost-effective and stress-free
Pro Tip: Always purchase used cars from a licensed dealer like First Choice Cars to avoid unwanted cases and ensure a smooth purchase experience.
Conclusion
Exporting a used car from the UAE to Saudi Arabia in 2025 is not only about crossing the border. It also involves understanding the rules, preparing the right documents, and budgeting for customs duty and VAT. You must follow the Saudi car import rules 2025 and ensure your vehicle meets GCC-spec standards to make the process smoother.
Whatever option you choose between self-drive or professional shipping, the UAE is one of the best places for Saudi buyers to find affordable and reliable cars. With the right export passing certificate UAE, customs clearance, and final registration, your journey to export a used car from UAE to Saudi Arabia can become effortless and stress-free.
Disclaimer: All information, including pricing, vehicle details, and legal requirements, is accurate at the time of publication but may be subject to change due to market conditions or policy updates. While First Choice Cars makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information provided, we hold no responsibility for any errors, omissions, or outdated content. We recommend contacting our team directly to confirm the latest details before making any decisions.