Medical Devices Import Duty & Landed Cost: United Arab Emirates to Saudi Arabia
Full 2026 tariff breakdown, customs duty calculations, and compliance alerts for importing into Saudi Arabia.
2026 Tariff & Cost Breakdown for Importing Medical Devices
Importing Medical Devices into Saudi Arabia incurs an 8.5% customs duty rate and 20% VAT rate. Duties are calculated on the CIF value in SAR. The total landed cost for Medical Devices includes these costs, impacting the bottom line for importers.
Cost Breakdown
| Component | Rate | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Product Value | — | USD 15000.00 |
| Shipping | — | USD 1200.00 |
| Insurance | — | USD 150.00 |
| CIF Value | — | USD 16350.00 |
| Customs Duty | 8.5% | USD 1275.00 |
| VAT/GST | 20% | USD 3255.00 |
| Total Landed Cost | — | USD 19530.00 |
HS Code Classification for Medical Devices
Primary HS Code: 9018.90 — What It Covers
HS code 9018.90 classifies Medical Devices, including specific equipment. This code is used for customs declaration purposes. The General Authority of Zakat, Tax and Customs enforces accurate classification.
Why Misclassification Carries Risk in Saudi Arabia
Misclassification of Medical Devices can lead to duty reassessment and fines enforced by the General Authority of Zakat, Tax and Customs. Accurate HS code classification is critical to avoid penalties.
Step-by-Step Guide: Importing Medical Devices from UAE to Saudi Arabia
Step 1: Verify Your HS Code & Product Description
Use the Saudi Arabia tariff lookup tool to verify the HS code for your Medical Devices. Check for binding tariff information to ensure accuracy.
Step 2: Gather Required Import Documents
Commercial Invoice Requirements
The commercial invoice must include the seller's and buyer's details, HS code, and CIF value in SAR.
Certificate of Origin
A Certificate of Origin is required for Medical Devices imports. Saudi Arabia accepts the GCC Customs Union origin certificate for UAE imports.
Packing List & Shipping Documents
A bill of lading or airway bill is required, including specific details for Saudi Arabia customs, such as the HS code and gross weight.
Step 3: Calculate Your Landed Cost
Calculate the landed cost using the formula: CIF Value + Customs Duty (8.5% of CIF) + VAT/GST (20% of CIF + Duty) = Total Landed Cost in SAR.
Step 4: Submit to Saudi Arabia Customs Authority
Submit your customs declaration through the General Authority of Zakat, Tax and Customs declaration system. A Certificate of Conformity from a SASO-approved certification body is required for Medical Devices.
Step 5: Pay Duties & Clear Goods
Pay duties and taxes through accepted payment methods. The typical clearance timeline for Medical Devices is a few days, depending on the customs authority's processing time.
How to Legally Reduce Duty on Medical Devices Imports into Saudi Arabia
Applicable Free Trade Agreements in 2026
The GCC Customs Union eliminates customs duties on goods traded between member states, including the UAE and Saudi Arabia, reducing the duty rate to 0% for eligible Medical Devices.
Duty Deferral Options: Bonded Warehouses & FTZs
The Saudi Customs Warehousing Procedure allows for duty deferral, enabling importers to delay paying duties until the goods are released from the warehouse.
Preferential Tariff Programs
No preferential tariff programs currently apply to Medical Devices imports from the UAE, so the standard duty rate applies.
Saudi Arabia Customs Compliance Rules for Medical Devices
General Authority of Zakat, Tax and Customs Requirements for Medical Devices
The General Authority of Zakat, Tax and Customs requires specific filing and documentation, including SASO and SFDA approval, for Medical Devices imports.
De Minimis Threshold
The de minimis threshold is 1000 SAR, meaning that imports below this value are exempt from certain customs procedures, but still require compliance with other regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Medical Devices Import Duty from UAE to Saudi Arabia
What is the duty rate for Medical Devices imports from UAE to Saudi Arabia?
The duty rate is 8.5% of the CIF value, but the GCC Customs Union eliminates this duty for eligible goods. The General Authority of Zakat, Tax and Customs enforces these rates.
What documents are required for importing Medical Devices into Saudi Arabia?
A commercial invoice, Certificate of Origin, and packing list are required, along with a Certificate of Conformity for certain Medical Devices. The Saudi Food and Drug Authority also requires SFDA approval.
Is my Medical Devices import eligible for the GCC Customs Union FTA?
Yes, if your goods originate from the UAE and meet the GCC Customs Union requirements, you may be eligible for a 0% duty rate. Check the General Authority of Zakat, Tax and Customs guidelines for details.
What are the penalties for non-compliance with Saudi Arabia customs regulations?
Penalties include duty reassessment and fines enforced by the General Authority of Zakat, Tax and Customs. Accurate classification and compliance are crucial to avoid these penalties.
What is the typical clearance timeline for Medical Devices imports into Saudi Arabia?
The clearance timeline typically takes a few days, depending on the customs authority's processing time and the completeness of the customs declaration. The General Authority of Zakat, Tax and Customs processes these declarations.
Are there any specific regulations for importing used Medical Devices into Saudi Arabia?
Yes, used Medical Devices are subject to specific regulations and may require additional documentation, such as a certificate of re-export. The Saudi Food and Drug Authority regulates these imports.