Traveling to Saudi Arabia demands close attention to its customs regulations, which continue to rank among the strictest worldwide. What you can carry into many other countries might be strictly prohibited in the Kingdom, often with severe penalties for violations.
Important Update
Saudi Arabia is maintaining strict bans on personal alcohol imports this year, but starting in 2026, controlled sales and consumption of beer, wine, and cider will be permitted in select licensed venues serving tourists and expatriates. Personal or retail imports of alcohol by travelers, or possession for personal use, remain strictly forbidden and subject to confiscation and criminal penalties until these rules change.
Knowing the rules before you pack is the best way to ensure a smooth arrival and peace of mind at customs.
General Guidelines for Travelers
Saudi customs regulations are frequently updated, with robust enforcement. Always check official Saudi Customs sources or consult your airline prior to travel.
If you’re uncertain about an item, declare it when arriving to avoid delays, confiscation, or harsher penalties.
Key Prohibited and Restricted Items
Bringing the following prohibited or heavily restricted items can result in confiscation, fines, or even prosecution:
- Alcoholic beverages and alcohol-containing products (all forms, including cooking wine, extracts, distilling equipment, or literature about alcohol). Note: Legalization of alcohol will be limited, starting in 2026, to specific licensed venues only, not for private or personal import.
- Narcotics and illegal drugs, including drug paraphernalia.
- Prescription medicines (must be for personal use, in original packaging, and accompanied by a prescription).
- Radio transmitters and certain tech devices (walkie-talkies, drones, short-wave radios; require advance approval).
- Weapons, firearms, ammunition, explosives (including replicas, fireworks, edged weapons).
- Pornographic or explicit materials and media contrary to Islamic morals.
- Politically sensitive materials or items critical of the Saudi royal family or government.
- Statues, figurines, and certain toys (especially those considered religious or inappropriate).
- Gambling equipment and games of chance.
- Items offensive to Islam or Saudi culture (religious items for personal use generally allowed; distribution is prohibited).
- Military uniforms and equipment.
- Fresh or perishable food items (reasonable personal quantities may be allowed after inspection; commercial quantities regulated).
- Books, CDs, DVDs, and other media (subject to inspection and censorship; pack and label separately).
- Stuffed animals and certain toys deemed inappropriate.
- Pork and pork-based products.
- Counterfeit goods, pirated media, and e-cigarettes/vapes.
- Large and undeclared quantities of jewelry, precious metals, or currency.
- Hazardous materials, chemicals, fireworks, or self-balancing hoverboards.
Inspection and Censorship
All printed materials, electronic storage, and media are subject to inspection and censorship.
To speed up your passage, pack such items separately and label clearly for easy access.
Customs may confiscate or delay delivery of any item pending review.
Customs Duties and VAT
Most imported goods are subject to a customs duty (5–15%) depending on the product type.
VAT remains at 15% and applies on top of the goods’ value and duty.
Some items such as books and reasonable quantities of used clothing may be exempt.
Always declare items accurately and keep invoices or receipts handy for customs officials.
New Regulations and Modernization
Effective June 1, 2025, all containerized shipments must be loaded on pallets, with specified exceptions for bulk and certain special goods.
Saudi Arabia now requires compliance with Product Certificate of Conformity (PCoC) and Shipment Certificate of Conformity (SCoC) for most imports; the “Letter of Undertaking” is no longer sufficient for compliance.
The customs process is increasingly digitized, with electronic platforms (e.g., FASAH) for declarations and payments—ensure all data matches official codes (HS codes) to avoid delays.
Practical Tips for Travelers
- Consult the latest customs guidance before departure.
- Carry a prescription for any necessary medicines, in original packaging.
- Declare uncertain or questionable items on arrival.
- Pack books and media separately and clearly identify them for inspection.
- Minimize religious materials or items intended for distribution.
- Use only official or trusted sources for advice on prohibited and restricted goods.
- Check hand-luggage limits for liquids (100ml max), electronics, and valuables per airport security rules.
Summary
Saudi Arabia enforces strict customs regulations to safeguard its cultural, legal, and moral standards. Travelers should prepare thoroughly, declare all items accurately, and seek up-to-date information directly from Saudi authorities or airlines. The coming change in alcohol policy (2026) will not affect personal imports by travelers; private importation and possession remain strictly illegal.
When in doubt, be transparent at customs and always consult for the latest updates before your trip.