How is customs clearance done in Saudi Arabia in 2025?

Customs clearance in Saudi Arabia is one of the most important steps any importer or trader goes through before goods enter the local market. With the expansion of trade and the development of electronic government platforms such as Fasah and the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority platform, clearance procedures have become faster and more organized. However, this also requires a thorough understanding of the steps, documents, fees, and the updated regulations of 2025.

In this article from Abdullah Shaheen Customs Clearance in Saudi Arabia, you will learn a complete, clear, and accurate explanation of everything you need to understand how to successfully complete the customs clearance process, along with important tips to avoid delays and fines, in addition to distributing targeted keywords that help improve the article’s visibility in search engines.

Firstly: What is customs clearance?

The concept of customs clearance refers to the steps and procedures by which goods entering or leaving the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia are released. The process includes:

Submit the required official documents
Payment of customs duties and taxes
Checking the goods and ensuring they conform to specifications
Issuing a shipment release authorization
Delivery of goods to the importer

These steps are carried out through electronic platforms such as Fasah or through accredited customs brokers’ offices in Saudi Arabia.

Second: Customs clearance steps in Saudi Arabia 2025 in detail

Customs clearance in Saudi Arabia is subject to rigorous procedures. A detailed, step-by-step explanation follows:

1. Preparing the essential documents

Before the shipment arrives, the following documents must be prepared:

Commercial invoice (includes details of goods and value)
Bill of lading (sea, air, land)
Certificate of origin
Packing List
commercial register
Authorization for a customs broker
Any licenses specific to goods (such as food and medicine – standards and specifications – communications…)

2. Register the shipment on the “Fasah” platform

The Fasah platform is the main electronic portal for registering shipments and tracking clearance procedures.

Steps:

Log in to the Fasah platform.
Upload the shipment documents.
Fill in the goods data accurately (classification – weight – value).
Send the request to the Customs Authority for review.

The importance of data accuracy

Any error in the trade value or HS Code number may result in:

fines
Delay in the arrival of goods
Reopening from the beginning

3. Goods Classification (HS CODE)

Classifying goods is a crucial step in determining applicable duties and taxes.

Common mistakes:

Selecting an incorrect customs code
Entering a non-matching description
Ignore the technical requirements specific to the product.

How do you get the correct rating?

via Saudi Customs websites
Through an authorized customs broker
Through companies specializing in customs clearance

4. Customs clearance and shipment inspection

After the data is submitted, customs takes the following steps:

Document inspection
Matching the contents of the shipment
Security check
Check product specifications
Customs duties determination

In some cases, additional documents are required, such as:

Certificates of Conformity
Laboratory reports
Updated reports

5. Payment of customs duties and value-added tax

Customs duties are determined based on:

Type of goods
Invoice value
country of origin
Specific ratios for 2025

Value Added Tax (VAT)

It is calculated at 15% of the value of the goods + customs duties.

Payment methods:

Electronic payment
bank transfer
Payment via customs broker

6. Issuance of a release permit

After inspection and payment, a customs clearance permit is issued, which allows the importer to receive his goods from the port or point of entry.

Reasons for the delay in issuing the permit:

unclear invoice details
Lack of documents
Differences in quantities or types
Suspicion about the origin of the goods

7. Receiving goods from the port or airport

This is done via:

Submitting a release permit
Submitting the release permit and paying the port storage fees.
Transporting goods to warehouses

Third: The most important official bodies that you deal with during customs clearance

1. Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority

The main body responsible for regulating the import and export process.

2. Food and Drug Authority

If the goods are food, pharmaceutical, or cosmetic.

3. Communications Authority

For electronic devices and communication chips.

4. Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO)

For certificates of conformity and electrical products.

Fourth: Expected time for customs clearance in Saudi Arabia 2025

The duration varies depending on the type of goods and the port, but in general:

Fifth: Golden tips to speed up the customs clearance process

Upload the documents before the shipment arrives.
Entering 100% correct data.
HS CODE confirmation before shipping.
Dealing with a certified and experienced customs broker.
Track the order status daily via Fasah.
Prepare invoices clearly (quantity – price – country of origin).
Avoid prohibited or restricted products unless you have obtained official authorization.

Sixth: Common mistakes that delay customs clearance

Invoice data conflicts with the shipping policy.
Entering an incorrect customs code
Failure to obtain a certificate of conformity
Incorrect business valuation
Shipping goods that require a permit without the importer’s knowledge
Leaving the shipment at the port for an extended period results in high storage fees.

Seventh: Customs clearance costs and fees 2025

The cost varies depending on:

Type of goods
country of origin
Are there any special fees?
Do you need further testing?

Estimated examples:

Electronic devices: 5-20%
Clothing and fabrics: 5-12%
Auto parts: 5-15%
Perfumes and cosmetics: 12-20%
Foodstuffs: 0-15%

Eighth: Why do you need a professional customs broker?

Because the procedures have become electronic and complex, having a customs broker like Abdullah Shaheen for customs clearance will guarantee you:

Clearance speed
Reducing fines
Enter accurate data
Saving time and costs
Save time and complete all procedures without needing to be physically present at the port.

Ninth: Frequently Asked Questions about Customs Clearance in Saudi Arabia 2025

1. Can I clear my goods myself?

This is possible, but the procedure requires considerable expertise. It’s preferable to rely on a professional.

2. Does customs clearance at the airport differ from that at the port?

The procedures are similar, but the clearance time varies depending on the type of shipment.

3. Can clearance be expedited in urgent cases?

Yes, by submitting complete documents and using the fast track service.

4. What should I do if my permit application is rejected?

Documents are amended, errors are corrected, and the order is resubmitted.

5. How long does it take to obtain a permit?

Typically between 6 hours and 48 hours.

Tenth: Article Summary

Customs clearance in Saudi Arabia became faster and easier in 2025, but it still depends on accurate data, complete documentation, and proper execution through the Fasah platform. If you follow the steps outlined in this guide, you will be able to clear your shipment in less time and without any delays or penalties.

If you need professional assistance, Abdullah Shaheen Customs Clearance provides all import and clearance services with high accuracy and speed in all Saudi ports.