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How to Import Used Vehicles into Saudi Arabia: Regulations, CoC, and SABER Guide

09 Sep 2025 Articles

How to Import Used Vehicles into Saudi Arabia: Regulations, CoC, and SABER Guide

Import used vehicles into Saudi Arabia requires strict compliance with SASO regulations, Certificate of Conformity (CoC), and SABER registration. Understand SASO regulations, Certificate of Conformity (CoC), and SABER registration requirements to avoid delays and ensure smooth customs clearance.

Things covered in the Definition of Vehicle:
“For the purpose of import regulations, a vehicle is defined as a motor vehicle with four wheels that is not on rails, cables, or the like, including light-duty and heavy-duty vehicles, passenger vehicles, multi-purpose passenger vehicles, buses, and trucks used for transporting goods or towing trailers and semi-trailers, but excluding motorcycles and trailers.”

Why Import Used Vehicles to Saudi Arabia?

The demand for used imported vehicles in Saudi Arabia is rising due to affordability, variety, and consumer preference for high-quality cars at lower costs compared to new vehicles. Importing used cars can be profitable for dealers and provides buyers with more options, but it requires compliance with strict Saudi regulations.

SASO Regulations for Import Used Vehicles into Saudi Arabia:

The Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO) has set clear rules to regulate used car imports. Importers must comply with these requirements to avoid rejection at customs.

Age and Condition Restrictions:

One of the main rules for those who want to import used vehicles into Saudi Arabia is the 5-year age restriction. Passenger cars , light vehicles, Trucks and heavy vehicles must not be older than 5 years.

Prohibited Vehicles:

The following cannot be imported:

  1. Salvaged or accident vehicles
  2. Cars previously used as taxis or police cars
  3. Vehicles with structural damage or safety issues

Environmental and Safety Standards

Imported vehicles must comply with GCC/GSO emission and safety standards. This ensures they are environmentally friendly and safe for use on Saudi roads.

Note: Certain exceptions apply, allowing antique vehicles over 30 years old or non-compliant vehicles that exceed age limits or energy efficiency requirements to be imported by Saudi citizens or premium residency holders with a compensation fee.

Common Mistakes Importers Should Avoid

  1. Importing vehicles that exceed the age limit
  2. Shipping cars without prior inspection and CoC
  3. Misunderstanding SASO’s prohibited vehicle list
  4. Delays in SABER registration due to missing documentation

How Watheeq Company Supports Vehicle Importers?

At Watheeq Company for Conformity, we help importers and dealers ensure compliance with SASO requirements:

  1. Certificate of Conformity (CoC) issuance
  2. Support with SABER registration and customs clearance
  3. Expertise in handling used vehicles
  4. Fast and reliable inspection services to save time and costs

Step-by-Step Process

import used vehicles into Saudi Arabia

1

Check Eligibility

Confirm that the vehicle meets SASO’s age, condition, and environmental requirements.

2

Inspection in Country of Export

Vehicles must undergo an inspection by an accredited inspection body in the country of export before shipping.

3

Obtain Certificate of Conformity (CoC)

A CoC is mandatory to prove that the car meets Saudi standards.

4

Register in SABER System

All imported products, including vehicles, must be registered in the SABER platform to complete customs clearance.

5

Customs Clearance and Registration

Once approved, the vehicle can clear customs and be officially registered for use in Saudi Arabia.

Conclusion

Working with Watheeq ensures you can import used vehicles into Saudi Arabia smoothly, avoiding delays and ensuring compliance with SASO standards. By carefully following SASO regulations, securing the required Certificate of Conformity (CoC), and completing SABER registration, importers can avoid costly delays. Proper planning not only ensures legal compliance but also maximizes profitability and customer satisfaction in Saudi Arabia’s growing used car market.
Contact Watheeq Company for Conformity today to ensure your vehicle imports meet SASO and SABER requirements.

FAQs About Importing Used Vehicles into Saudi Arabia

  1. What is the maximum age of imported cars in Saudi Arabia?
    Passenger cars , Trucks/heavy vehicles: 5 years.
  2. Can I import a car that was used as a taxi abroad?
    No, vehicles previously used as taxis, police cars, or with major damage are prohibited.
  3. Do I need a Certificate of Conformity (CoC)?
    Yes, the CoC is mandatory for all imported used vehicles to prove compliance with Saudi standards.
  4. What is SABER in Saudi Arabia?
    SABER is an online platform for registering imported products, including vehicles, to obtain shipment certificate for custom clearance.
  5. Who can help me with the inspection process?
    Watheeq Company for Conformity provide full support for inspection, CoC issuance, and SABER registration.

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