Importer & Exporter of Record Services in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia, fueled by Vision 2030, is a fast-growing market with major investments in tech, healthcare, aviation, and infrastructure. But importing is complex, requiring SABER registrations, SASO conformity, SFDA approvals, plus 15% VAT and varying customs duties. Without local expertise, global businesses face costly delays.
IOR & EOR Responsibilities in Saudi Arabia
In Saudi Arabia, the Importer of Record (IOR) and Exporter of Record (EOR) are the legal entities responsible for shipments. They ensure all goods meet customs, tax, and conformity requirements before clearance or export. This includes:
Acting as the official legal entity of record for imports and exports.
Filing all required customs documentation: commercial invoices, bills of lading, HS codes, and Certificates of Conformity.
Managing product registrations through the SABER system and ensuring SASO conformity.
Paying applicable customs duties (5–15%) and VAT (15%) to Saudi authorities.
Ensuring compliance with restrictions on encryption, wireless, dual-use, and ECCN-classified items.
Maintaining accurate import/export records for regulatory inspections and audits.
Saudi Arabia Trade Compliance at a Glance
Indicator | Value |
|---|---|
VAT Rate | 15% |
Average Duty | 0–15% |
Customs Time | 3–7 business days |
SABER System | Mandatory for many product categories |
Restricted Goods | Used equipment, wireless devices, encryption tech |
Top Imports | IT, Telecom, Medical, Aviation, Automotive |
When Do You Need IOR or EOR Services in Saudi Arabia?
No Saudi-owned entity registered for imports.
Importing IT/telecom hardware (subject to SABER & CITC rules).
Shipping medical or aviation devices regulated by SFDA/GACA.
Handling restricted items (wireless, encryption, dual-use).
Managing temporary imports or returns (RMA).
Avoiding shipment delays, rejections, or penalties.
How We Help – Sector-Specific Challenges & Solutions
Sector | Compliance Needs |
|---|---|
IT & Telecom | SABER approval, CITC permits, SASO standards, dual Arabic/English labels |
Medical Devices | SFDA licensing, technical compliance, packaging standards |
Automotive | SASO approval, GSO conformity, spare part restrictions |
Aviation | GACA approvals, safety certifications, specialized permits |
Understanding Duties, Taxes & DDP in Saudi Arabia
Importing into Saudi Arabia involves strict duty, VAT, and conformity requirements under the SABER system. Key compliance points include:
Import Duties:
Flat 15% applied on dutiable value
SABER System:
Mandatory platform for Product CoC, Shipment CoC, or Self-Declaration CoC
Certificates of Conformity (CoC):
Issued by SASO-approved bodies to confirm product compliance
Be in the Know
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Our Full IOR & EOR Service in Saudi Arabia Includes:
Acting as your local legal representative (IOR/EOR).
Full customs clearance and documentation.
SABER & SASO registrations and approvals.
Duty and VAT management.
Handling temporary imports, returns, and re-exports.
End-to-end visibility and shipment tracking.
Why Choose IOR/EOR for Saudi Arabia?
Regulatory Mastery
Compliance with SABER, SASO, SFDA, and GACA.
No Local Entity Needed
Import legally without a Saudi-owned company.
Dual IOR/EOR
One partner for both imports and exports.
End-to-End Handling
Docs, duties, VAT, clearance, and delivery.
Proven Global Record
Trusted in 170+ countries worldwide.
Get Your IOR/EOR Solution in Saudi Arabia Today
Importing into Saudi Arabia requires precision, compliance, and local expertise. From SABER registrations and SASO approvals to VAT and customs clearance, we simplify the process while reducing risk.
With IOR/EOR as your trusted partner, your shipments clear smoothly, securely, and in full compliance with Saudi law.
Frequently Asked Questions
It is the legally recognized entity responsible for ensuring imports meet all Saudi customs, tax, and regulatory obligations.
Yes, but only by establishing a Saudi-registered entity or appointing a licensed IOR service provider.
SABER is an electronic system requiring products to be registered and certified before customs release. This includes obtaining Product CoC, Shipment CoC, or Self-Declaration CoC.
Most regulated goods require SASO/SABER conformity. Exemptions apply to specific categories, but compliance must always be verified in advance.
VAT is fixed at 15% , while duties typically range from 5–15%, depending on HS Code.
Generally, no. Most used or refurbished products are restricted, especially electronics and medical devices, unless special permits are obtained.
