In a nation where digital transformation is at the forefront, Saudi Arabia has made transferring car ownership more seamless than ever. Through the Absher platform, residents can now complete the entire ownership transfer process online, whether they are selling or buying a car. This development not only saves time but also enhances security, convenience, and trust between both parties involved in the transaction.
Absher platform: An online service for transferring car ownership
Absher’s vehicle sales service is a secure online system designed to allow car owners to transfer ownership digitally. Once both the buyer and seller agree on the sale, the payment is sent to a secure intermediary account provided by the platform. This ensures that funds are protected until the car is officially handed over. If either party decides to cancel the transaction before finalizing the delivery, the full amount is automatically refunded. This feature adds an extra layer of confidence for both sides and removes the need for in-person negotiations or cash handling.
Key Conditions to Use the Online Service
There are a few important conditions for using the Absher platform. Both the seller and buyer must have active Absher accounts. The vehicle’s price must be between 500 and 1,000,000 SAR (490 and 979 AED), and the car must be registered as private or private transport. The car should have a valid inspection certificate, active insurance, and a valid driving license. Additionally, there should be no outstanding traffic violations on the vehicle or the buyer. For residents, the ownership limit is two cars, each with no more than eight seats. A government fee of 150 SAR (146 AED) applies, and the buyer must cover a separate Absher transaction fee of 230 SAR (225 AED), including VAT.
Documents and Step-by-Step Process
To complete the transaction, the seller must upload their national ID and a copy of the vehicle registration, along with a signed contract from an authorized dealership. If the buyer is not a Saudi citizen, a valid iqama and a certified ID from the sponsor are required, as well as a driving license. For diplomatic vehicles, an official letter from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs must be presented. The process begins when the seller logs into Absher, selects the vehicle, and initiates the sale. The buyer then logs in to review and confirm the purchase. Once both parties confirm, the transaction is processed, and the vehicle is officially transferred.
Instant Transfers Through Certified Dealerships
For those who prefer immediate transfers, certified car dealerships across the kingdom offer an in-person alternative. In this process, the buyer, seller, and dealership employee are all present. The seller provides a signed sales agreement, and the buyer receives a new registration form once the payment and paperwork are completed. If the payment is made by wire transfer or ATM, the vehicle can be handed over directly. However, in cases involving regular checks, the car must remain at the dealership until the funds are confirmed. Regardless of the method chosen, a valid vehicle inspection report is a mandatory part of the process.
Adrian is an Editor. Psychology graduate with over 4 years in the automotive industry, 3 in front of the camera. Occasionally seen at his family owned tyre shop. He will only buy cars that pass the big bottle test.
