Saudi Arabia sets 90-day limit for GCC-registered vehicles, fines up to SR2,000

Riyadh - The Saudi government has implemented new regulations limiting the duration of privately owned vehicles registered in other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries to a maximum of 90 days within a 365-day period, according to a report from Aug. 26, 2026. The Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA) and the General Directorate of Traffic approved these procedures in coordination with the Ministry of Interior.

These regulations apply to vehicles owned by Saudi citizens or residents, as well as those authorized to drive in Saudi Arabia. Vehicles already present in the country will have a 90-day grace period to comply, from Aug. 26 through Nov. 23, 2026. Upon entry and departure, customs authorities will record vehicle details and owners or authorized drivers to ensure adherence to the limit.

To rectify the situation, owners or drivers can either exit the country or permanently import and register the vehicle in Saudi Arabia, obtaining Saudi license plates. This can be done by submitting a customs declaration through the nearest border port and paying applicable duties and taxes. Permanent registration does not require returning via the original entry port.

Alternatively, owners can apply for an extension of up to 30 days through a platform authorized by the Ministry of Interior, accessible via the Absher portal. Extensions cannot exceed 30 days and must be submitted electronically before the original 90-day period ends. If the extension application is submitted after the permitted period, it will be denied.

Penalties for violations include fines ranging from SR1,000 to SR2,000 and vehicle impoundment, along with towing and impoundment costs. These penalties will be waived if the owner or authorized driver follows the proper procedures to register the vehicle in Saudi Arabia or provide an undertaking to remove it after paying the fines. The decision was published in the official Umm Al-Qura Gazette and aligns with Cabinet Resolution No. 637.