Shipping regulations

All commercial shipments to Saudi Arabia must have the following documents:

commercial invoice

certificate of origin

a bill of lading or air way-bill

steamship or airline company certificate

an insurance certificate (if goods are insured)

a packing list

In some special situations, other documents may be needed. For example, food products require a manufacturer's ingredients certificate and also a consumer protection certificate. These must accompany a price list.

When it comes to importing meat, only male beef or sheep meat fresh or frozen can be imported into the Kingdom. Special documents in addition to those listed above are required for these imports. They are:

a document certifying that the animals were slaughtered according to Islamic rules -- applicable to meat and poultry

an official health certificate -- all meat products must have a health certificate guaranteeing freedom from disease

For the shipment of grains, seeds, animal feed, livestock, pets, horses, fruits, vegetables and electrical appliances, special documentation is required.

The shipment of a motor vehicle for personal use in the Kingdom must have manufacturer's certificate prior to being shipped. The manufacturer normally obtains this certificate from the Saudi Arabian Standards Organization (SASO). A student or a diplomat with a personal used car is exempted from this requirement.

All merchandise imported into the Kingdom must be identified with the country of origin.

Strictly forbidden is the import of pig meat, alcohol or narcotics.

Firearms, wireless telephones, certain communication systems, sensitive materials and some publications require a permit from the authorities.

Shipments of less than US$2,000 of non-commercial value and cars imported for personal use, do not require shipping documents.