Getting ready to transfer car ownership in Saudi Arabia can be straightforward when you have the right guidance. This guide lays out how to transfer car ownership in Saudi Arabia with clear steps that help you avoid delays and mistakes, ensuring a smooth and compliant process.
Step-by-Step Process for 2025 Vehicle Transfers
3 Essential Pre-Transfer Requirements
Before beginning the car title transfer, make sure you have a valid vehicle inspection certificate (issued within the last 30 days), an active Absher account for both the seller and the buyer, and the original vehicle registration card (Istimara). These preliminary requirements are essential as they confirm that the car meets the current Saudi vehicle inspection standards and that both parties are properly registered on the Absher platform. Addressing these ensures a streamlined transfer process without unnecessary complications.
How to Transfer Ownership via Absher Platform
Follow these steps to complete your Absher vehicle transfer:
Log in to the seller’s Absher account and navigate to the vehicle services section.
Select the option for "Ownership Transfer" and carefully enter the buyer’s ID number and mobile number.
Process the payment of SR 500 (or AED equivalent) transfer fee for private vehicles, making sure the fee aligns with updated 2025 rates.
Complete the digital contract signing, ensuring that any required additional approvals like the MOI traffic department clearances are obtained.
This digital process minimizes physical paperwork and helps both parties monitor the progress of the car title transfer in real time.
Required Documents for Car Title Transfer
It’s important to gather all necessary documents before initiating your transfer:
Seller's Documents:
Valid original ID or Iqama to verify identity
A current insurance certificate showing clear coverage
A recent printout indicating no outstanding traffic violations
Buyer's Documents:
A valid Saudi ID or Iqama
Proof of recent salary if financing is involved
A mobile number that is linked with the Absher account
Having these documents at hand avoids delays and ensures the transfer complies with GCC certified vehicle transfer regulations.
2025 Ownership Transfer Fees Breakdown
The fees for transferring car ownership may vary depending on your vehicle type. The table below summarizes the base fees along with any additional inspection or certificate charges:
Vehicle Type | Base Fee (SAR/AED) | Additional Charges (SAR/AED) |
|---|---|---|
Private Sedan | 500 SAR / AED | 50 SAR / AED inspection fee |
Commercial Vehicle | 750 SAR / AED | 100 SAR / AED certificate fee |
Motorcycle | 300 SAR / AED | 30 SAR / AED inspection fee |
Review the fee breakdown carefully to prepare the right amount in advance. Make sure any extra costs, such as vehicle inspection charges under Saudi standards, are also planned for.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When managing the car title transfer, consider these pitfalls:
Expired Documents:Ensure that your Istimara, insurance certificate, and seller’s ID are not past their valid dates. Expired documents can lead to unexpected delays and require additional visits to the inspection centers.
Undisclosed Modifications:Any aftermarket modifications or engine adjustments should be clearly documented in the transfer paperwork. Failure to disclose changes might necessitate extra approval from traffic authorities, risking further delays.
Outstanding Fines:It is crucial to settle any traffic violation fines in advance. You can verify the status of any fines through the Absher Violation Check or directly at a MOI-approved service center.
Special Transfer Scenarios
Special circumstances may require additional steps:
Inherited Vehicle Transfers
Transfers involving inherited vehicles often need a court order. In these cases, tax exemptions might apply for first-degree relatives, and the process may extend up to 60 days. Verify that all legal documents and paperwork are complete to avoid any regulatory setbacks.
Company-to-Private Transfers
If you are transitioning a vehicle from a corporate fleet to private ownership, you must submit a copy of the commercial registration along with a board resolution. An authorization letter and VAT clearance certificate provided by the company are essential for a smooth transfer.
Post-Transfer Checklist
After completing the transfer process, use the following checklist to ensure no detail is overlooked:
Update your insurance policy within 7 days to reflect the new ownership.
Verify the new Istimara includes accurate details such as your name, vehicle specifications, and the correct expiry date.
Transfer any associated parking permits if necessary, ensuring all documentation aligns with the new registration.
FAQ
Q:Can I complete the car title transfer process if I am not meeting the other party in person?A:Yes, you can easily complete the transfer digitally using the Absher platform. The process is designed to facilitate remote transactions, so as long as all required documents are uploaded and details are verified, physical presence isn’t a necessity. The digital contract signing and ID verification further simplify the process. This ensures you carry out the transfer seamlessly from anywhere in Saudi Arabia. Additionally, vehicle inspection is confirmed digitally, minimizing delays.
Q:What if some of my documents, like the vehicle inspection certificate, are close to expiring?A:It is crucial to obtain a new vehicle inspection certificate issued within the last 30 days before starting your transfer. This certificate plays a vital role in both validating the vehicle’s condition and complying with Saudi vehicle inspection standards. Maintaining up-to-date documents prevents any potential legal or bureaucratic delays during the process. Always check the certificate’s expiry date to be sure it meets the updated requirements of 2025.
Q:Are there additional charges if my vehicle has undergone aftermarket modifications?A:Yes, if your vehicle has undergone any modifications, you may need to provide additional documentation or obtain special approval from the relevant traffic authorities. This extra step may involve consultation with the MOT traffic department and possibly incurring extra fees. Ensuring all modifications are properly documented is key to avoiding unexpected delays. Be proactive in contacting the appropriate department if you are unsure about any modifications.
Q:How long does the transfer process usually take and is it reversible?A:Typically, standard car title transfers are finalized within 2-3 working days once all documents and fees have been submitted through the Absher system. The process is designed to be final and irreversible after completion, with no reversal option after the designated 24-hour confirmation period. This quick turnaround makes it easier for both buyers and sellers to manage their vehicle transfers without prolonged waiting times.
This article is for reference only, please refer to the latest local laws and regulations.
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Yasir Al-Mansouri have more than 10 years of experience in the automotive journalism world. He is an expert of automotive news articles, features, and reviews on cars, from the latest models to industry trends. He've built strong relationships with car manufacturers and industry experts. Connect with Yasir Al-Mansouri on LinkedIn to stay updated on all things automotive and join our exciting journey in exploring the world of automobiles.
