Saudi Arabia has announced new rules limiting the stay of GCC-registered private vehicles in the Kingdom to 90 days within a 365-day period.
The regulations will take effect on August 26, 2026, and apply to vehicles registered in other Gulf Cooperation Council countries. The 90-day period may be used consecutively or across multiple visits, with the duration calculated from the vehicle’s entry through a Saudi customs port.
The measure applies to GCC-registered private vehicles owned by Saudi citizens or residents, as well as vehicles authorized for their use. Authorities said the rules aim to strengthen oversight and prevent vehicles from remaining in Saudi Arabia for extended periods without being properly registered.
Vehicles already in the Kingdom when the new rules take effect will receive a 90-day grace period. Owners will then need to either take the vehicle out of Saudi Arabia or permanently import and register it locally.
An extension of up to 30 additional days may also be available if requested before the initial 90-day period expires.
Authorities have warned that vehicles exceeding the permitted period could face fines ranging from SR1,000 to SR2,000 and may be impounded until the violation is resolved.
The new policy is expected to affect GCC residents who regularly drive their vehicles into Saudi Arabia for work, family visits, business or travel. Vehicle owners are being advised to monitor their entry dates and ensure they comply with the new requirements to avoid penalties.