Saudi Arabia is introducing new rules for privately owned vehicles registered in other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. The new regulations will take effect on August 26, 2026.
Under the new policy, eligible GCC-registered vehicles can stay in Saudi Arabia for a maximum of 90 days. The rule applies to vehicles owned by Saudi citizens or non-GCC residents living in the kingdom.
The same requirement covers vehicles that these individuals are officially authorised to drive. The 90-day allowance can be used during one continuous stay. It can also be divided across several visits within a 365-day period.
The stay period will start when the vehicle first enters Saudi Arabia through a customs port. This provides a clear starting point for calculating the permitted period.
Grace Period for Vehicles Already in Saudi Arabia
Vehicles already present in Saudi Arabia when the new rules begin will receive a special grace period. This period will run from August 26 until November 23, 2026.
Before the grace period ends, vehicle owners must take action. They can either remove the vehicle from Saudi Arabia or permanently import it.
Those choosing permanent importation must complete the required customs procedures. A customs broker can submit the necessary declaration electronically through the Fasah platform.
Owners can then pay the required customs duties and taxes. They will not need to return to the original border crossing for these procedures.
Extension Available Under New Rules
The regulations also provide an option to extend the vehicle’s permitted stay. Owners or authorised drivers must apply before the original 90-day period expires.
An extension of up to 30 days may be granted. The additional period will begin after the initial 90-day allowance ends.
The extension service is expected to operate through the Absher platform. It will be provided in coordination with Saudi Arabia’s General Directorate of Traffic.
Penalties for Exceeding the Allowed Period
Authorities have also announced penalties for vehicles that remain beyond the permitted period. Fines may range from SAR 1,000 to SAR 2,000.
Authorities may also impound vehicles involved in violations. The vehicle could remain impounded until the issue is resolved.
Owners or authorised drivers will be responsible for towing and impoundment costs. They will also have to cover other related expenses.
The new measures aim to improve the management of GCC-registered vehicles. Saudi Arabia is seeking a clearer system for vehicles staying in the kingdom for longer periods.
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The policy has been introduced by the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority. The authority is working with the Ministry of Interior’s General Directorate of Traffic on the new system.
