Saudi Arabia imported approximately 1.9 million vehicles during 2024 and 2025, highlighting the strength of one of the world’s largest automotive markets, while Chinese vehicles emerged as the leading source of imports into the Kingdom.
According to data released by the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA), vehicle imports reached around 959,000 units in 2025, following approximately 942,000 units imported in 2024, bringing the two-year total to more than 1.9 million vehicles.
China ranked as the Kingdom’s largest vehicle supplier during the period, reflecting the rapid global expansion of Chinese automotive manufacturers. Japan followed in second place, while India, Thailand, and South Korea occupied the next positions. The United States ranked sixth among vehicle-exporting countries to the Saudi market.
The figures underscore ongoing shifts within the automotive sector, where Asian manufacturers continue to strengthen their position amid growing competition in both conventional and electric vehicle segments.
Expanding Domestic Manufacturing
Alongside strong import volumes, Saudi Arabia is accelerating efforts to build a robust domestic automotive industry and reduce reliance on imports through strategic industrial investments.
One of the most significant initiatives is the King Salman Automotive Cluster located within King Abdullah Economic City’s Special Economic Zone. The project aims to serve as a major hub for local and international automotive manufacturers.
The cluster hosts several landmark projects, including CEER, Saudi Arabia’s first domestic electric vehicle brand, and Lucid Motors’ first international manufacturing facility outside the United States.
The Kingdom is also pursuing partnerships with major global manufacturers, including Hyundai Motor, to establish advanced production facilities that support localization, strengthen supply chains, and increase non-oil industrial output.
Strengthening Local Suppliers
To further support industry development, the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources has launched a Local Supplier Development Program designed to qualify Saudi companies according to international automotive standards.
The initiative focuses on improving competitiveness, strengthening long-term partnerships between local suppliers and global manufacturers, and creating a sustainable automotive ecosystem that supports economic growth and job creation.
A Strategic Vision 2030 Sector
The automotive and mobility sector remains a strategic priority for the Public Investment Fund as part of Vision 2030. Through major investments, industrial partnerships, and localization initiatives, the Kingdom aims to diversify its economy, advance high-value manufacturing, and position itself as a regional and global hub for future mobility industries.
