Saudi Arabia Lowers Cash, Valuables Declaration Threshold for Travelers
By Faiza Musa Adamu
The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has announced new customs regulations requiring travelers entering or leaving the Kingdom, including Hajj and Umrah pilgrims, to declare cash, gold, jewelry, and other valuable items if their combined value reaches 40,000 Saudi Riyals (SAR) or more.
The revised regulation reduces the mandatory declaration threshold from the previous SAR60,000 to SAR40,000 as part of the Kingdom’s broader efforts to strengthen customs oversight, curb money laundering, and combat other financial crimes.
Under the new rules, travelers carrying cash, precious metals, gemstones, jewelry, or other valuables worth SAR40,000 or above must complete a customs declaration upon arrival or departure.
Saudi authorities may also request proof of ownership or purchase for high-value items to verify their legitimacy.
The ministry warned that travelers who fail to comply with the declaration requirements risk having their undeclared cash or valuables confiscated.
Saudi Arabia Lowers Cash, Valuables Declaration Threshold for Travelers
Offenders may also face financial penalties and other sanctions in accordance with Saudi customs regulations.
Officials said the updated policy forms part of ongoing measures to enhance border security, improve financial transparency, and ensure compliance with international standards on the movement of money and valuable assets.
The ministry urged all pilgrims and international travelers to familiarize themselves with the revised customs requirements before embarking on their journeys to Saudi Arabia.
It advised travelers to prepare the necessary documentation for any high-value items they intend to carry and to complete the required declarations where applicable.
According to the ministry, complying with the updated regulations will help facilitate a smooth entry and departure process while preventing unnecessary delays, confiscations, or penalties at Saudi ports of entry and exit.
The announcement comes ahead of future Hajj and Umrah seasons, when millions of pilgrims from across the world are expected to travel to the Kingdom.
