🇸🇦 Saudi Arabia
MIDDLE EAST
Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA)
15%
Duty-Free Allowances
| Category | Allowance |
|---|---|
| Alcohol | 0L |
| Cigarettes | 400 |
| Personal goods value | US$267 |
| Alcohol is completely prohibited in Saudi Arabia — no allowance. Tobacco: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g tobacco (though significant restrictions and high excise apply). Personal goods for travelers: SAR 3,000 (~$800 USD) in general goods duty-free. Commercial goods follow standard import duty rules. | |
Alcohol is completely prohibited in Saudi Arabia — no allowance. Tobacco: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g tobacco (though significant restrictions and high excise apply). Personal goods for travelers: SAR 3,000 (~$800 USD) in general goods duty-free. Commercial goods follow standard import duty rules.
Cash Declaration Threshold
US$16,000
Local currency equivalent: SAR
Travelers carrying cash, traveler's cheques, or negotiable instruments above this threshold must declare them at customs on arrival.
Special Notes
- 01Saudi Arabia is governed by Islamic law (Sharia) which heavily influences what can be imported.
- 02VAT was raised to 15% in July 2020 (from 5%) due to economic pressures from COVID-19.
- 03Saudi Arabia is a GCC member; GCC Unified Customs Law applies.
- 04Saudi Vision 2030 has been liberalizing some import rules (cinemas, entertainment now allowed).
- 05SFDA (Saudi Food and Drug Authority) oversees food, drug, and cosmetic imports.
- 06Saudi Arabia enforces strict halal requirements on food imports.
- 07E-invoicing (FATOORAH) is mandatory for VAT-registered businesses.