What Is an ATA Carnet in Saudi Arabia? Meaning, Requirements and How It Works

Car Transportation: 10 min read

What is an ATA Carnet? It is an international customs document, often called a “passport for goods”, that lets goods enter other countries temporarily without import duties and taxes. Saudi Arabia has been part of the system since June 2024, so exhibitors, art lenders and companies in the Kingdom can now use it. This guide explains the meaning of ATA Carnet, how it works, and lists the qualifying requirements for goods going in, out, and through Saudi Arabia. 

What is an ATA Carnet in Saudi Arabia and who must apply for it?

Who is using it?

International exhibitors showcase their exhibition booths and products in Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam (e.g., exhibitions like Big 5 Construct Saudi). In addition, lenders ship works of art to important shows in Saudi Arabia such as Noor Riyadh, the Diriyah Biennale, and Desert X AlUla. Saudi Arabian companies export their samples and equipment, and film crews and technicians transport their own equipment.

Is it compulsory?

Not really! The ATA Carnet is optional but if you do not have one, you may still have to deal with duties, VAT, and a bond after crossing the border.

ATA Carnet Meaning in Shipping: How It Works at Saudi Customs

The ATA carnet meaning comes from the French and English words Admission Temporaire / Temporary Admission. In shipping terms, it tells Saudi customs the goods are only visiting and will be re-exported.

A carnet is valid for up to one year. It is a customs document, not a freight booking or transport insurance, so the cargo still needs moving.

Need the cargo moved while the carnet covers customs? Share your route and we will plan it.

ATA Carnet in Saudi Arabia: Goods Accepted and Not Covered

Saudi acceptance is defined by category. The categories listed include exhibition and fair goods, professional equipment such as cameras, instruments and tools, commercial samples, and educational, scientific and cultural goods.

Two categories are not listed: motor vehicles and sports goods. Consumables, perishables, disposables and goods meant for sale are excluded everywhere, because everything on a carnet must be re-exported.

Unsure whether your items qualify? Send us the list and we will help you check before you apply.

ATA Carnet Requirements for Saudi Arabia: What to Prepare

Issuing chambers ask for similar information, so gather it before you apply.

🔹Applicant and trip details

Your full name and address, the countries you will visit and how long you will be away.

🔹A general list

A detailed list of every item with descriptions and values. Items cannot be added once the carnet is issued.

🔹Security

A guarantee based on the goods’ value and destinations, such as insurance, a bank guarantee or a deposit, depending on the issuer.

🔹Timing and endorsement

The goods must return within the validity period, and the carnet must be endorsed by customs on every exit and entry.

ATA Carnet and the GCC: Routes From Dammam

From Dammam, most temporary moves head to neighbouring GCC markets. The UAE, Bahrain and Qatar are listed in the ATA system, while Kuwait and Oman do not appear on the current list. The route from Dammam to Bahrain is frequently traveled in the Eastern Province.

It has been pointed out by some carriers that the splitting of shipments is not permitted in Bahrain, Qatar and the UAE, which is to say that shipments must travel together under the same carnet. Since rules can change, always check with your issuing chamber beforehand.

Are your items being sent to the GCC with the aid of a carnet? Share your route and we will plan transport and clearance around it.

ATA Carnet vs Carnet de Passage: Vehicles in Saudi Arabia

An ATA carnet is not normally used for motor road vehicles, which usually travel under a separate document, the carnet de passage. Saudi Arabia is not listed as accepting the means-of-transport category, so check with Saudi customs and the issuing body before planning a vehicle move.

Planning a temporary vehicle movement? Ask us whether your vehicle and route qualify.

How to Get an ATA Carnet in Saudi Arabia: Steps, Cost and What to Avoid

Carnets are issued by authorised chambers of commerce, not by freight companies. For goods leaving the Kingdom, the Federation of Saudi Chambers is listed as the guaranteeing association. For goods coming in, the holder applies in their home country.

1. Gather your details and general list
2. Apply to the issuing chamber, usually online
3. Pay the issuing fee and provide security
4. Receive the carnet, on paper or digital where accepted
5. Have customs endorse it at every exit and entry
6. Return the goods before expiry and close the carnet

Expense: the cost varies depending on the chamber’s requirements, but normally involves an issuing fee in addition to security based on the value and destination of the goods.

Avoid: having an endorsement omitted, being vague about the list of items, being late for making the claims (the latter can cost you extra money), and thinking that a single document is a good solution for all goods.

Format: There are various options for carnets usage, but at present, only the UK, EU and Norway accept them while other countries might adopt them not earlier than 2027.  Carry paper unless told otherwise.

Conclusion

Understanding what an ATA carnet is comes down to a few points: it is a temporary-admission document, it needs a detailed list and security, and it only works for goods that return. In Saudi Arabia, check that your goods fall into an accepted category, whether they are coming in or going out, and whether your GCC destination is in the system. Plan the transport and customs around the carnet, not after it. If goods or a vehicle are moving temporarily across the GCC, BPL Motoring can handle the logistics from Dammam. Get a Quote or message us on WhatsApp.