🇸🇦 Saudi Arabia Entry Guide: 2025 Latest Regulations & Essential Business Customs Procedures 🕌 Released

Saudi Arabia, which is undergoing dynamic changes through the 'Vision 2030' project, has recently been modernizing its customs procedures, including the online ATA Carnet customs clearance (implemented June 2024) and the establishment of arrival duty-free limits.

However, strictly prohibited items and dress codes based on Islamic law remain important, so please be sure to check the latest integrated guide below.

1. 🛍️ Personal Effects and Duty-Free Limits (2024-2025 Update)

Saudi Arabia has recently clarified duty-free limits for the convenience of travelers entering the country.

• General Duty-Free Limit: Exemption for items for personal use and gifts with a total value of 3,000 Riyals (approx. USD 800) or less.

• Tobacco Duty-Free Limit: Up to 200 cigarettes (1 carton) per person can be brought in duty-free.

• E-cigarette Regulations: Saudi Arabia allows the import of e-cigarette devices and liquids (including nicotine), but they must be for personal use only. According to recent regulations, large-scale commercial imports are strictly prohibited. (Devices must be carried in carry-on luggage.)

2. 💵 Currency and Precious Metal Declaration (60,000 Riyal Threshold)

• Subject to Declaration: If the total combined value of cash, traveler's checks, precious metals (gold, silver, etc.), and jewelry is 60,000 Riyals (approx. USD 16,000) or more, it must be declared.

• How to Declare: Online pre-declaration via the official ZATCA website or the dedicated app is strongly recommended.

• Penalties for Violation: Failure to declare or making a false declaration may result in a fine of 25% to 50% of the value of the items or confiscation.

3. 💼 Notices for Business Travelers (Samples and ATA Carnet)

As of June 1, 2024, procedures have been formalized following the digital transformation of the Saudi Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA).

• Temporary Admission (ATA Carnet): For items intended for re-export, such as samples for consultations or exhibition items, an ATA Carnet must be issued by the local Chamber of Commerce, and an online customs clearance application must be submitted to the Saudi Customs Authority to enable duty-free temporary admission.

• Hand-carried Samples: Official criteria are vague, but usually 10 items or fewer are recommended. High-value items (watches, jewelry, etc.) are very likely to be subject to customs duties.

• Use of Digital Materials: It is recommended to bring catalogs in soft copy format using USBs or tablets instead of large quantities of printed materials.

4. 🚫 Prohibited and Restricted Items (Compliance with Islamic Law)

Saudi Arabia has very strict security screenings, and discovery of the items below will result in severe penalties (detention, deportation, etc.).

• Strictly Prohibited: Alcohol (all beverages containing alcohol), pork products, narcotics, pornographic materials, and gambling equipment.

• Religion and Politics: Books/symbols for proselytizing religions other than Islam, and all materials related to Israel. (Entry may be denied if there is a record of entry/exit to Israel in the passport.)

• Drones: Personal/commercial drones are prohibited unless prior approval from the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) is obtained.

• Medicines: You must carry an English prescription, and entry may be refused if the medicine contains narcotic ingredients.

5. 👔 Dress Code and Etiquette Guide

Although the obligation for women to wear an abaya has been removed, clothing that respects social customs is still required.

• Women: Modest clothing that does not reveal shoulders or knees. (Sleeveless tops and short skirts are prohibited in public places.)

• Men: Shorts are prohibited when visiting government offices or mosques. Long pants and a neat top are recommended.

• Respect for Authority: It is very dangerous to disobey or react emotionally to instructions from customs officers or police. In case of problems, contact the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Saudi Arabia immediately rather than responding on-site.

💡 Final Tip for Travelers

Saudi immigration takes about 30 minutes, including the fingerprint registration process.

Entry has become very fast with the recent introduction of the e-Visa system, but please be careful as dress code violations or bringing in alcohol are absolutely not tolerated!