Saudi Arabia to limit GCC-registered vehicles to 90-day stay

Saudi Arabia is implementing new regulations that limit the stay of privately owned vehicles registered in other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries to a maximum of 90 days. Effective August 26, 2026, the policy applies to vehicles owned by Saudi citizens or non-GCC residents living in the kingdom, as well as vehicles they are officially authorized to drive.

The 90-day allowance can be used in one continuous stay or divided across multiple visits within a 365-day period, starting from the vehicle's first entry through a customs port. Owners may apply for a single extension of up to 30 days via the Absher platform before the initial period expires.

Vehicles already within the kingdom when the rules take effect will be granted a grace period from August 26 until November 23, 2026. During this time, owners must either remove the vehicle from the country or proceed with permanent importation. Permanent importation can be managed electronically through the Fasah platform, allowing owners to pay required duties and taxes without returning to the original border crossing.

Failure to comply with the new limits may result in fines between SAR 1,000 and SAR 2,000, and vehicles could be impounded. Owners will also be responsible for any costs related to towing or impoundment.