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SAUDI ARABIA CUSTOMS INFORMATION

All shipments from the UK to Saudi Arabia are treated as international exports and must include customs documentation.

When you book with DHL eCommerce UK, we automatically generate the required forms for you. Simply describe your parcel contents accurately when booking, and we’ll handle the paperwork.

CUSTOMS DECLARATION (INVOICE)

A customs declaration (also called a customs invoice) provides Saudi Customs (ZATCA) with essential details about your parcel - including contents, value, and purpose.

To ensure quick customs clearance:

• Be Detailed: e.g., “men’s leather wallet” instead of “accessory.”
• Be Accurate: Declare the true value, even for gifts.
• Be Complete: Include the recipient’s full name, address, and contact number.
• Recipient ID Required: The receiver must provide their Commercial Registration (CR) number (for businesses) or National ID/Iqama (for private individuals/expats).

DUTIES, TAXES, AND IMPORT FEES

All goods imported into Saudi Arabia are subject to customs duty and VAT (15%), based on the value and type of goods.

• Low-Value Items: Shipments valued under SAR 1,000 (approx. £200) are typically exempt from Customs Duties, but VAT (15%) still applies.
• Note: These low-value shipments may be subject to a fixed customs service fee of SAR 15.
• Commercial or High-Value Goods: May attract standard customs duty rates of 5-15% (or higher protective tariffs), depending on the product category and its CIF value.
• Payment: Duties and taxes are payable by the recipient before delivery. If charges are not paid, Saudi Customs may hold, return, or dispose of the shipment. Ensure your recipient is aware that import fees may apply.

SENDING PERSONAL EFFECTS TO SAUDI ARABIA

If you’re sending a friend or family member some of their belongings from the UK, take extra care when declaring your contents.

Shipments containing personal effects are classed as unaccompanied baggage and may be exempt from customs duties (though VAT and admin fees can still apply) if the items are used and for the recipient’s personal use. They require additional clearance documents:

• A copy of the owner’s Iqama (Residence Permit) or national ID.
• A detailed, valued packing list (inventory list).
• A letter of authorisation if someone else is receiving the parcel.
• Note: Extra customs processing time and administrative fees may apply.

Foreign residents can only import personal shipments; commercial imports addressed to individuals will be re-exported immediately.

To find out more, please visit the General Authority of Zakat, Tax, and Customs (ZATCA) website.

SAUDI ARABIA RESTRICTED AND PROHIBITED ITEMS

Alongside our own prohibited items list, it is important to check the national customs of Saudi Arabia before sending a parcel. More information about restricted and prohibited items can be found on the ZATCA website.

RESTRICTED AND PROHIBITED GOODS

MORE INFORMATION ABOUT RESTRICTED AND PROHIBITED GOODS

Mobile Phones

• Up to 1–2 devices are typically allowed for personal use (must include invoice).
• More than 2 devices may be classed as commercial and require an original invoice, country of manufacture, and Certificate of Origin.
• Are subject to the 15% VAT rate.

High-Value Shipments (Commercial)

• Over USD 100: Invoice + consignee Commercial Registration (CR) number required.
• Over USD 3,000: May require a Certificate of Origin to benefit from certain trade agreements.
• Over USD 13,000 (approx.): Must include attested invoice, Certificate of Origin, and an authorisation letter from the consignee.
• Watches must be accompanied by a Certificate of Origin - otherwise, they may be seized.

Supplements and Cosmetics

• Regulated by the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA).
• Personal quantities of non-prescription supplements are generally limited to an amount sufficient for three months’ consumption (typically up to 15 kg total weight). No more than 20 packages.
• Supplements or cosmetics marketed for weight loss, enhancement, or sexual performance are strictly prohibited.

Clearance Timelines & Penalties

• Maximum customs holding time: 21 days.
• Shipments must be cleared or re-exported - customs does not allow destruction.
• Counterfeit goods must be re-exported quickly; the shipper pays all related costs and penalties.