Apparel & Textiles HS Codes in Saudi Arabia: Your Complete 2025 Import Guide

Introduction:

Are you an apparel importer tired of customs delays, unexpected duty costs, and endless confusion over fabric classifications?
You’re not alone — every day, countless businesses across Saudi Arabia face costly holdups simply because they used the wrong HS Code for their garments, shoes, or accessories. A small mistake in classification can mean the difference between smooth clearance and weeks of shipment detention at the port.

But here’s the good news — there’s a solution.
By understanding the correct HS Codes for apparel and textiles in Saudi Arabia and complying with the SASO textile labeling standards, importers can eliminate uncertainty, cut costs, and protect their brand reputation. This guide explains everything you need to know — from fabrics and readymade garments to footwear and fashion accessories — so you can trade confidently and compliantly in 2025 and beyond.

What Are Apparel & Textile HS Codes in Saudi Arabia?

HS (Harmonized System) Codes refer to six- to ten-digit numbers that are internationally used to classify goods that are traded. Saudi Customs (ZATCA) in Saudi Arabia applies these codes to calculate duty rates and import limits and also to check product conformity requirements as per the SASO textile standard.

Every HS code does not only determine the nature of product, but also describes its material structure, use, and degree of production. For example:

• Raw cotton fabrics fall under HS Code 5208–5212,
  
• Knitted or crocheted garments under 6101–6117,
  
• Footwear and shoes under 6401–6406,
  
• Fashion accessories like belts, gloves, or scarves under 6214–6217.
  

These codes directly affect import taxes, inspection rules, and the need for proof of origin and Arabic labeling.

1. Fabrics & Textiles

 2. Readymade Garments (Apparel)

3. Footwear (Shoes & Boots)

4. Fashion Accessories

Compliance Tips for HS Classification in Saudi Arabia

• Arabic Labelling: Should contain fabric composition, instructions of washing, and place of origin.
• Evidence of Origin: Certificate of origin due to anti misdeclaration.
• SASO Certification: This is particularly in the case of baby clothes, uniforms, and safety garments.
• Differences in Tariffs: Raw materials (5%): Finished goods (12-20).
• FASAH/SABER Integration: All the apparel HS codes need to be enrolled in SABER where they are to be validated to confirm conformity.
  

How to Use These HS Codes

1. Determine the specific material and product form ( e.g. woven cotton vs. knitted polyester).
2. Compare it with the closest HS code in the online system of tariff at ZATCA.
3. The verification of SASO conformity prior to importation is done through the SABER portal.
4. Announce the proper code in your documentation of customs to prevent delays or fines.

Core Attributes of Apparel & Textile HS Codes in KSA

Saudi Arabia applies HS codes under the GCC Unified Customs Tariff, but it also integrates additional SASO (Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization) requirements. The key attributes include:

1. Arabic Labeling Requirement
   
   • All apparel and textiles must display fabric composition, washing instructions, and country of origin in Arabic.
     
   • Failure to comply can result in shipment detention or market withdrawal.
     
2. Proof of Country of Origin
   
   • Saudi Customs requires authenticated certificates of origin for all textile imports to prevent counterfeit or misdeclared goods.
     
3. SASO Textile Standard Compliance
   
   • Standards ensure that textiles meet health, safety, and flammability requirements.
     
   • Items like baby clothes, uniforms, and home textiles face stricter testing under SASO ISO 3758 and SASO GSO 987/2023.
     
4. Duty Differentiation
   
   • Raw materials and fabrics: Usually 5% or lower.
     
   • Finished apparel and shoes: Between 12%–20%, depending on type and country of origin.
     

Understanding Duty Variation: Raw Textiles vs. Finished Apparel

The duty rate is directly linked to the HS code structure:

By classifying products under the correct HS code, importers can reduce costs, ensure faster clearance, and avoid fines from Saudi authorities.

Real-World Applications and Industries Impacted

The apparel and textile HS codes touch multiple industries in KSA:

• Fashion Retail and E-Commerce: Fast fashion brands, which are importers of China, Turkey, and Europe, have to depend on proper classification so that they do not overpay the duties.
• Homogenous Suppliers: The Corporate and industrial clothing importers are required to comply with the SASO textile safety requirements.
• Footwear & Leather Goods: To be able to meet the anti-counterfeit policies, importers of branded shoes require the origin validation.
• Luxury & Accessories: Luxury fashion and accessories brands are victims of special compliance tests in terms of labeling, branding, and product authentication.

Textile & Apparel Import Growth in Saudi Arabia (2020–2025)

Insight: The 83% growth since 2020 highlights the demand surge in Saudi Arabia’s textile and fashion sector, driven by e-commerce and Vision 2030 retail reforms.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the HS Code for ready-made garments in Saudi Arabia?

Ready-to-wears are usually grouped under Hs Codes 6201-6212 based on the gender and fabric and category. As an example, cotton shirts of men cost 6205.20, whereas the blouses of women cost less than 6206.40.

2. Are all textile imports in Saudi Arabia required to have Arabic labels?

Yes. SASO labelling rule requires care instructions and fiber content as well as country of origin to be written in Arabic language.

3. What documents are needed to import apparel into Saudi Arabia?

The importers will have to present a certificate of origin, commercial invoice, a packing list, and SASO conformity certificate. Other permits include children wear and safety-tested material.

4. How can incorrect HS classification affect my business?

The misclassification can cause late deliveries, penalties by customs or increased duty payments, and may cause re-inspection in the Saudi conformity program.

5. Do free trade agreements affect apparel duty rates in Saudi Arabia?

Yes. Duty exemptions under GCC and in some bilateral arrangements can be made in case the origin of the exporter is certified and rules of origin satisfied.

Conclusion: The Fabric of Compliance

Each piece of cloth or tailored apparel has a virtual identity of its own, which is the HS Code. The perception and practice of these codes are not only a compliance measure but a competitive edge as well.

In the dynamic Saudi apparel industry, you need accuracy in the classification of Hs, Arabic labelling and SASO compliance to make sure that your business operates smoothly between the port and store shelf.
To navigate these complexities confidently, partner with Palm Horizon, your trusted logistics and customs clearance expert in KSA.

Move your fashion forward—compliantly, efficiently, and globally.