Air Freight Shipping from/to Saudi Arabia

Air freight is the fastest way to move goods between Saudi Arabia and the rest of the world. With exports such as oil-related products, chemicals, plastics, machinery, textiles, electronics, and perishable foods, Saudi Arabia relies on efficient air logistics to strengthen its role as a leading trade hub in the Middle East. iContainers connects your business to global air freight networks with instant online quotes, transparent pricing, and expert customs support.

Get an Air Freight Quote from/to Saudi Arabia

Instant Online Rates

Get real-time quotes for air freight shipments to and from Saudi Arabia with just a few clicks. Compare multiple airlines, routes, and delivery times, then book instantly through our digital platform.

How to Book Air Freight with iContainers

1. Request your online quote.
2. Select your preferred route and airline.
3. Upload shipment details and required documents.
4. Confirm and pay securely online.

Customs Clearance and Tracking Support

We provide full assistance with customs clearance in Saudi Arabia and destination countries. From requirements set by the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA) to health and agricultural regulations under the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) and the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture (MEWA), our team ensures compliance with national and international rules. You also benefit from end-to-end shipment tracking for complete visibility.

Air Freight Services from/to Saudi Arabia

Shipping Large Cargo and Pallets (LCL by Air)

Key Saudi exports and imports shipped by air include:

• Chemicals, plastics, and petrochemical by-products
• Machinery and industrial equipment
• Pharmaceuticals and medical devices
• Fresh produce, dairy, and meat imports
• Textiles and apparel
• Electronics and consumer goods

Typical Transit Times for Air Freight Saudi Arabia Routes

• Riyadh (RUH) → London: ~2–3 business days
• Jeddah (JED) → Frankfurt: ~2–3 business days
• Dammam (DMM) → New York: ~3–5 business days
• Riyadh (RUH) → Dubai: <24 hours (hub-to-hub)
• Jeddah (JED) → Shanghai: ~4–6 business days

Main Airports in Saudi Arabia for Air Freight

• King Khalid International Airport (RUH, Riyadh): Major hub for pharmaceuticals, machinery, and electronics.
• King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED, Jeddah): Key hub for perishables, consumer goods, and re-exports.
• King Fahd International Airport (DMM, Dammam): Serves industrial and oil-exporting regions in the Eastern Province.

Air Freight Costs from/to Saudi Arabia

Weight, Volume, and Cargo Type Factors

Air freight charges are based on chargeable weight (actual vs. volumetric). Pharmaceuticals require cold-chain handling, while perishables and electronics often need specialized packaging.

Seasonal Price Fluctuations

Saudi Arabia’s import and export cycles impact rates:

• Pharmaceuticals (year-round): High compliance and steady demand.
• Perishables & food imports (Ramadan & Hajj peaks): Increased demand during religious and holiday seasons.
• Electronics & consumer goods (Q4): Higher volumes before year-end holidays.
• Holiday season (Oct–Dec): Global cargo congestion raises costs.

Customs Duties, Surcharges, and Local Fees

In addition to freight charges, shipments may include:

• Customs duties and VAT under ZATCA.
• Sanitary and phytosanitary fees from SFDA and MEWA.
• Handling and airport security charges.
• Aviation fuel surcharges.

Documentation & Packaging Requirements

Air Waybill and Commercial Invoice

Every shipment requires:

• Air Waybill (AWB): Transport contract between shipper and airline.
• Commercial Invoice: Required for customs clearance.
• Packing List: Detailed cargo description.
• Import/Export Declarations (via ZATCA): For goods entering or leaving Saudi Arabia.
• Sanitary/Phytosanitary Certificates: For food and agricultural exports (issued by SFDA/MEWA).

Packaging Standards for Palletized Cargo

• ISPM-15 certified pallets.
• Refrigerated/insulated packaging for perishables and pharmaceuticals.
• Shrink-wrap, strapping, and clear labeling.

Prohibited and Restricted Items

Saudi Arabia follows IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) plus national law:

• Prohibited: Alcohol, narcotics, pork products, gambling materials, explosives.
• Restricted: Pharmaceuticals (require SFDA clearance), agricultural products (regulated by MEWA), and cultural/religious materials (regulated by the Ministry of Culture).