How the Saudi transfer works
Saudi Arabia handles most vehicle services digitally. Ownership transfer is initiated through Absher, both buyer and seller need active Absher accounts, and the buyer must have valid insurance before the transfer completes. The vehicle's registration card is the Istimara.
- 1. Seller lists the car for sale in Absher (private vehicle sale service) with the agreed price.
- 2. Buyer accepts in their own Absher and pays through the approved channel.
- 3. The buyer must have insurance in place for the vehicle to complete the transfer.
- 4. Ownership updates digitally; the new Istimara reflects the buyer as owner.
Fahas — the periodic inspection
The MVPI (Fahas) is Saudi's mandatory periodic vehicle inspection. A current passing Fahas is a good baseline when buying, but it is a minimum standard, not a guarantee of condition — still do your own inspection or hire a garage.
What to check before you commit
Raftaar247 listings in Saudi Arabia show prices in SAR and connect you directly with sellers across Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam and the rest of the Kingdom.
- Istimara validity — an expired registration brings fines and paperwork.
- Accident history — ask directly and cross-check through available records; repaired accident cars are common in the market.
- Flood damage — after heavy rains in Jeddah and other cities, flood-damaged cars sometimes appear; check under carpets and in the spare wheel well.
- Loan or finance on the vehicle — it must be settled before transfer.
Written by the Raftaar247 team to help GCC car buyers and sellers. Found it useful? Read more guides.