Carrying gold while travelling in the Gulf isn’t unusual at all. Many expats living in the region, carrying gold between countries, have been fairly normal for years. But anyone flying into or out of Saudi Arabia with valuable gold, jewellery, or precious metals may need to pay closer attention from now on. Anyone carrying gold worth SAR 40,000 or more needs to declare it
Saudi Arabia Has Cut Its Declaration Limit From SAR60,000 To SAR40,000
The Kingdom has lowered the amount of travellers who can carry before they must officially declare it to customs authorities. The change forms part of wider efforts to tighten checks around money laundering and financial crimes. Previously, travellers only had to declare gold, jewellery and other precious items if their value exceeded SAR60,000.
That limit has now dropped to SAR40,000, which works out to roughly AED39,000 or around $10,700. Apart from gold, jewellery, gemstones and other precious metals are included too. And it applies whether you’re entering Saudi Arabia or leaving the country.
Travellers May Be Asked To Show Proof Of Purchase
Declaring the items isn’t the only requirement. Passengers may also need to provide paperwork showing where the items came from and how much they are worth. Customs officials may request an invoice or proof of purchase.
If authorities determine the items are for business or trade rather than personal use, other customs rules may apply. The new rules are largely about transparency and tracking large-value items moving across borders.
Also Read: Kuwait Now Mandates Travellers To Declare Cash, Gold And Valuables Over KWD3,000 At Airports
Failing To Declare Could Become Expensive
Saudi authorities now have the power to temporarily seize undeclared valuables while investigations take place. In some cases, assets can be held for up to 72 hours.
Financial penalties can also follow. First-time offenders may face fines worth between 10 and 25 per cent of the undeclared amount. Repeat violations could lead to penalties reaching half the value of the items involved.
Cases involving suspected criminal activity or money laundering would move to specialist authorities for further investigation.
Also Read: Saudi Arabia Opens ETA Scheme For UK Citizens, Granting Them Multiple Entries
Gulf Travellers Are Being Urged To Check Before They Fly
Saudi Arabia receives millions of visitors every year from across the Middle East. Many arrive carrying gifts, jewellery or family valuables, particularly during holiday periods and wedding seasons. Which means knowing the new limit before arriving at the airport could save travellers a lot of time, paperwork and potentially money too.
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FAQs
What happens if I don't declare valuables?
Authorities can seize undeclared items temporarily and fines may apply depending on the circumstances.