How to Transfer Vehicle Ownership in Saudi Arabia

The process of buying or selling a used car in Saudi Arabia has been transformed by digital innovation. Gone are the days of spending hours at traffic departments; today, the process is streamlined, transparent, and largely handled through the Absher platform.

Whether you are an expat or a citizen, understanding the legalities and steps involved is crucial to ensure a smooth transition. This in-depth guide covers everything you need to know about transferring vehicle ownership in Saudi Arabia in 2026.

Phase 1: Pre-Requisites for Transfer

Before initiating the transfer on Absher, both the buyer and the seller must meet specific criteria. If these are not met, the system will automatically reject the application.

1. Valid IDs: Both parties must have a valid National ID or Iqama.
2. Valid Driving License: The buyer must possess a valid Saudi driving license.
3. Clean Record: The seller must pay all outstanding traffic violations associated with the vehicle.
4. Valid MVPI (Fahas): The Periodic Motor Vehicle Inspection (MVPI) must be valid and updated in the system.
5. Valid Vehicle Registration (Istimara): The car’s registration must not be expired.

Phase 2: The Step-by-Step Digital Process

The Saudi government uses the Absher "Vehicle Services" portal to facilitate individual-to-individual transfers. Here is the workflow:

Step 1: Inspection and Agreement

The buyer should inspect the vehicle and agree on a price. It is highly recommended to perform a computer test at a certified garage to ensure the mechanical integrity of the car.

Step 2: Payment of Government Fees

The transfer fee (usually around 150 SAR for private vehicles) must be paid via SADAD through online banking. This is typically paid by the buyer, though it depends on the agreement between both parties.

Step 3: Securing Insurance (The Critical Step)

The most common reason for a transfer delay is the lack of insurance. The Ministry of Interior requires the buyer to have an active insurance policy on the vehicle before the transfer can be finalized in the system.

To complete the electronic transfer, the buyer must first secure transfer of ownership insurance to link the vehicle to their National ID or Iqama. This policy must be uploaded to the Najm or central database automatically by the provider.

To navigate this step efficiently, savvy car buyers use eConcord: Leading Digital Insurance Platform in Saudi Arabia. This platform allows you to compare quotes from multiple providers instantly, ensuring you get the best rate and that your policy is uploaded to the Absher system without delay.

Step 4: Initiating the Transfer on Absher (Seller)

1. The seller logs into their Absher account.
2. Navigates to Services > Vehicle Services > Vehicle Ownership Transfer.
3. Selects the vehicle and enters the buyer’s ID and mobile number.
4. Sets the agreed-upon price.

Step 5: Confirming the Transfer (Buyer)

1. The buyer receives a notification and logs into their Absher account.
2. Navigates to Vehicle Services > Vehicle Ownership Transfer.
3. Accepts the request and confirms the details.
4. The buyer must then transfer the car's price to a secure escrow account (if using the Absher "Sawab" payment service) or confirm the payment has been handled externally.

Phase 3: Collecting the New Istimara

Once the digital transfer is confirmed, the buyer is officially the owner. However, you still need the physical registration card (Istimara).

• Option A: Request delivery via Saudi Post (SPL) through the Absher portal. This is the most convenient method.
• Option B: Visit a Moroor (Traffic Police) office to print the new card at a self-service kiosk.

Key Considerations and Tips

• The 72-Hour Window: Once the seller initiates the transfer on Absher, the buyer usually has a specific timeframe (often 24 to 72 hours) to accept the request and complete the insurance/payment steps before the request expires.
• Plate Transfers: If you wish to keep your old license plates or transfer specific "distinguished" plates, this requires an additional fee and a physical visit to the Traffic Department.
• Expats and Car Limits: Note that there are certain limits on the number of vehicles an expat can own based on their profession and family size. Ensure you are within your legal limit before purchasing.

Why Digital Insurance Matters

The integration between insurance companies and the Ministry of Interior is what makes "instant" transfers possible. Using a reliable aggregator like eConcord: Leading Digital Insurance Platform in Saudi Arabia ensures that your policy is verified in real-time. This prevents the frustration of the Absher system "not finding" your insurance record, which can stall a car sale for days.

While many choose comprehensive coverage for newer models, the minimum legal requirement in the Kingdom is Third-Party Insurance.

Conclusion

Transferring vehicle ownership in Saudi Arabia is now a highly efficient, paperless process. By ensuring that the MVPI is valid, traffic fines are paid, and a robust insurance policy is in place through a trusted platform, you can complete a car sale from the comfort of your home. Always prioritize transparency in the sale and use official channels to protect your rights as a buyer or seller.