Importing cars from Japan to Saudi Arabia is a popular option for buyers seeking high-quality, low-mileage vehicles at competitive prices. However, the Kingdom enforces strict regulations that must be met before shipping. This guide covers everything you need to know in 2026.
The 5-Year Age Limit
Saudi Arabia strictly limits used vehicle imports to a maximum of 5 years from the model year . For 2026, only vehicles manufactured in 2021 or later are eligible.
The age is calculated from January of the manufacturing year. Vehicles older than this are rejected at the port .
Exception: Antique vehicles over 30 years old can be imported but are not permitted on public road
Left-Hand Drive Requirement
Saudi Arabia requires Left-Hand Drive (LHD) vehicles. Right-hand drive (RHD) vehicles cannot be registered . Since Japan is a RHD market, most JDM vehicles require costly LHD conversion, which is often impractical. Some rare JDM models may qualify for exemptions, but these are not guaranteed.
SASO and SABER Compliance
All imported vehicles must comply with SASO (Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organisation) technical regulations. Compliance is obtained through the SABER electronic platform
SASO vs. SABER
SASO is the government authority that sets the technical regulations and safety standards. SABER is the electronic platform used to implement these regulations and issue the required certificates .
Required Certificates
Through SABER, importers must obtain:
Product Certificate of Conformity (PCoC): Confirms the vehicle type complies with SASO regulations
Shipment Certificate of Conformity (SCoC): Issued for each shipment, confirming the goods are covered
Important: The SASO inspection must be completed before shipping. Without the certificate, the vehicle cannot clear customs
Prohibited Vehicles
Saudi Arabia strictly prohibits import of :
Vehicles with accident damage (drowning, fire, collision, rollover)
Vehicles marked as “Salvage” or “Scrap”
Former taxis or police vehicles
Vehicles with altered or forged chassis numbers
RHD vehicles or RHD-to-LHD conversions
Customs Duty and VAT
The tax structure is straightforward:
| Tax Component | Rate | Calculation Basis |
|---|---|---|
| Customs Duty | 5% | CIF Value (Cost + Insurance + Freight) |
| VAT | 15% | CIF Value + Customs Duty |
Important: Saudi Customs reserves the right to reassess the customs value if the declared invoice price appears below market value
Cost Example: Toyota Land Cruiser
| Component | Amount (SAR) |
|---|---|
| CIF Value | 180,000 |
| Customs Duty (5%) | 9,000 |
| VAT (15% on 189,000) | 28,350 |
| Total Taxes | 37,350 |
Required Documents
The following documents are required for customs clearance :
Original Bill of Lading
Export Certificate (from Japan)
Commercial Invoice
SASO Certificate of Conformity (via SABER)
Insurance Certificate
Iqama (residence permit) or passport for individuals
Saudi Customs Declaration (ZATCA)
For individuals importing from a sea port, the Bill of Lading and an authorization for a carrier to transport the vehicle are required
Shipping from Japan to Saudi Arabia
Shipping Methods
| Method | Cost (USD) | Transit Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ro-Ro | $1,500–$2,500 | 20–30 days | Standard vehicles |
| Container | $2,800–$4,500 | 25–35 days | High-value cars |
Primary Ports: Jeddah Islamic Port (west coast), King Abdulaziz Port in Dammam (east coast)
Real-World Landed Cost Estimate
For a 2021 Toyota Camry with CIF value of $18,000:
Customs Duty (5%): $900
VAT (15% on $18,900): $2,835
Total Taxes: $3,735
Total Landed Cost: ~$21,735
How to Import with TokyoCarZ
| Step | What We Do |
|---|---|
| 1. Consultation | Confirm vehicle meets 5-year rule and LHD requirement |
| 2. Sourcing | Access Japanese auctions (USS, TAA) and global networks |
| 3. Verification | Auction sheet translation, pre-bid inspection |
| 4. SASO Coordination | Arrange SABER compliance and pre-shipment inspection |
| 5. Shipping | RoRo or container to Jeddah or Dammam |
| 6. Delivery | Coordinate customs clearance and registration |
Contact TokyoCarZ to start your Saudi Arabia import.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I import a car older than 5 years to Saudi Arabia?
No. The maximum age is 5 years from the model year. For 2026, only 2021 models or newer are eligible .
Q2: Can I import a right-hand drive car from Japan?
No. Saudi Arabia requires LHD vehicles. RHD vehicles cannot be registered .
Q3: What is the customs duty on imported cars?
Customs duty is 5% of the CIF value. VAT is 15% on the CIF plus duty .
Q4: Do I need SASO certification before shipping?
Yes. SASO/SABER compliance must be obtained before shipping. Without it, the vehicle cannot clear customs .
Q5: How many cars can an individual import per year?
Individuals without a commercial registration can import one vehicle per year .
Q6: How long does shipping take from Japan to Saudi Arabia?
Approximately 20–35 days depending on the port and shipping method .
Q7: What documents are required for customs clearance?
Bill of Lading, Export Certificate, Commercial Invoice, SASO Certificate, Insurance, and Iqama/passport .
Q8: Are damaged vehicles allowed to be imported?
No. Vehicles with accident damage (flood, fire, collision) or marked as salvage are prohibited.
Q9: Can I import an electric vehicle from Japan?
Yes, but EVs must meet SASO standards and may require additional conformity inspections. Confirm with SABER before shipping.
Q10: What is the penalty for non-compliance?
Vehicles that do not meet age, LHD, or SASO requirements are rejected at the port. You may face storage fees, re-export costs, or fines.
Related Resources
Note: Tax rates, regulations, and SASO requirements are subject to change. Always verify current requirements with ZATCA, SASO, or a licensed customs broker before purchasing.
