Al-Haditha Customs Thwarts Attempt to Smuggle Over 45,000 Captagon "Amphetamine" Pills Hidden Inside "Cheese" Shipment<p><br></p>The Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA) at the Al-Haditha Customs Port has successfully foiled an attempt to smuggle 46,968 Captagon "Amphetamine" pills, which were found hidden inside a truck entering the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.<br>Hamoud Al-Harbi, the official spokesperson for ZATCA, stated that during the routine inspection and examination of an incoming truck, the narcotic pills were discovered concealed inside a shipment of "metal cheese cans."<br>Al-Harbi added that following the seizure, ZATCA coordinated immediately with the General Directorate of Narcotics Control (GDNC) to ensure the arrest of the intended recipients of the contraband. Consequently, the individual scheduled to receive the shipment inside the Kingdom was successfully apprehended.<br>The spokesperson emphasized that ZATCA remains committed to tightening customs control over the Kingdom’s imports and exports across all ports. He stressed that the Authority stands vigilant against smuggling attempts to fulfill its strategic pillar of enhancing community security and protection by curbing the trafficking of such toxins and other prohibited goods.<br>Al-Harbi urged the public to contribute to combating smuggling in order to safeguard society and the national economy. Reports can be submitted confidentially via the designated security hotline (1910), by email at (1910@zatca.gov.sa), or through the international number (+9661910). Informants may be eligible for a financial reward if the report’s information proves to be accurate.
ZATCA Activates "Digital Report" Service to Enhance Beneficiary Experience and Optimize Digital Services<p class="ms-rteElement-P"></p><p style="text-align:justify;">The Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA) has announced the activation of the "Digital Report" service, provided by the Digital Government Authority (DGA) through the Beneficiary Engagement Center “Amer". This initiative comes as part of ZATCA's commitment to enhancing communication channels with beneficiaries and enabling them to participate in improving and developing digital services.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">ZATCA explained that activating the "Digital Report" service aims to provide a more seamless and transparent experience when dealing with digital services. By enabling beneficiaries to submit their feedback and suggestions, the service will contribute to improving service quality, accelerating response times, and increasing beneficiary satisfaction.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">The service provides three main tracks to receive beneficiary reports. The first track is " Submit Complaint," which allows for the escalation of complaints related to digital services if the processing time is exceeded or if the service is unavailable. The second track allows users to submit a " Conversion application," enabling beneficiaries to suggest converting a traditional service into a digital one. The third track enables beneficiaries to submit a " Proposed Development" to share ideas and proposals that contribute to developing and improving existing digital services.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">ZATCA pointed out that this step integrates with its ongoing efforts to enhance e-participation and leverage beneficiary opinions and suggestions. This supports service development and raises efficiency in line with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to provide innovative digital government services that meet the aspirations of beneficiaries.<br></p>
ZATCA App Enhances the Efficiency of Completing Zakat, Tax, and Customs Procedures Digitally<p></p>The Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA) continues to enhance its digital channels by offering a comprehensive range of services. Most notably, the ZATCA smartphone application enables taxpayers and customers to conveniently and flexibly complete numerous zakat, tax, and customs procedures, contributing to better service efficiency and improving the overall user experience.<br>The application provides a suite of digital services that allows users to monitor their compliance and track their data. Through the app, users can access the taxpayer dashboard to track obligations, returns, and payments. It also features specialized calculators for traders and consumers, as well as customs duties and taxes. The application also offers several customs services, including customs declaration inquiries, shipment tracking, the Integrated Customs Tariff, and the Customs Declaration Service for Travelers.<br>In addition, the application facilitates registration services and various zakat and tax procedures, including Value Added Tax (VAT) registration, verification or cancellation of registration, requests to change filing periods, zakat registration, and installment plans for zakat and VAT liabilities. It also provides access to account statements, electronic invoice verification, and the submission and follow-up of reports and notifications.<br>ZATCA App also enables secure and approved electronic payment options, enhancing the reliability of financial transactions and accelerating the completion of related procedures.<br>This initiative is part of ZATCA’s ongoing efforts to develop its digital channels and drive digital transformation across zakat, tax, and customs services, ultimately enhancing performance efficiency and improving the quality of services provided.
ZATCA Opens Applications for Fresh Graduates in "Binaa-Alkafaat" and "Ameen" Programs<p></p><p style="text-align:justify;">The Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA) has announced the opening of applications for its 2026 fresh graduate programs, "Binaa-Alkafaat" and "Ameen." The initiatives aim to attract national talent from both Saudi and international universities and qualify them in specialized fields to enhance their readiness for the labor market within a professional environment that bridges academic knowledge and practical experience.<br>The "Binaa-Alkafaat" program targets Bachelor's and Master's degree holders in several disciplines, including Business Administration, Public Administration, Project Management, Human Resources, Economics, Accounting, Finance, Supply Chain, Data Science and Analytics, Statistics, Mathematics, Law, Sharia, Artificial Intelligence, Information Systems, Management Information Systems (MIS), Industrial Engineering, Insurance and Risk Management, Information Security, Systems Engineering, Engineering, and International Relations. The program is designed with a methodology that integrates theoretical knowledge with practical application within a professional and motivating work environment over a 12-month period.<br>ZATCA clarified that the key admission requirements for the "Binaa-Alkafaat" program include that the applicant must be of Saudi nationality and hold the required qualification with a minimum GPA of 3.2 out of 4 or 4 out of 5. For Bachelor's degree holders, the applicant's age must not exceed 25 years, with no more than two years having passed since graduation. For Master's degree holders, the age must not exceed 27 years, with no more than one year having passed since graduation. Applicants are also required to be proficient in English according to the criteria set by ZATCA, pass personal interviews and assessments, and pass the medical examination.<br>ZATCA added that the "Ameen" program targets recent graduates with a Bachelor's degree in fields including Languages and Translation, Law, Business Administration, Administrative Systems, Public Relations, Social Work, Criminology (all tracks), Criminal Justice (all tracks), and Applied Medical Sciences, specifically Radiologic Sciences and Biomedical Technology. The program focuses on building cognitive and applied capacities in the customs field through comprehensive theoretical and practical training in the fundamentals of customs and security sciences spanning 12 months.<br>ZATCA stated that the primary requirements for applying to the "Ameen" program are that the applicant must be a Saudi national with a minimum GPA of 2.8 out of 4 or 3.5 out of 5. The applicant's age must not exceed 25 years, with no more than two years since graduation. The program also requires passing personal interviews, assessments, and medical exams, in addition to meeting the physical fitness standards specified by the Authority.<br>Accepted trainees in both programs will enjoy multiple benefits, including a monthly stipend, medical insurance for the trainee and their family members, as well as advanced training programs that contribute to developing their technical and administrative skills, preparing them to enter the labor market efficiently.</p><p>Applications for both programs will commence on June 7, 2026, and will run until June 27, 2026, via the Authority's official website. Those interested in learning more details can view all requirements, conditions, targeted specializations, and benefits through the instructional guide available on the application page of the ZATCA's website.<br></p><p><br></p>
Al-Wadeeah Customs Thwarts Attempt to Smuggle 6.2 kg of Hashish “Cannabis”<p></p>The Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA) at the Al-Wadeeah Customs Port has successfully foiled an attempt to smuggle 6.2 kilograms of hashish “Cannabis”, which was found hidden inside a vehicle entering the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.<br>Hamoud Al-Harbi, the official spokesperson for ZATCA, stated that during the routine inspection and examination of an incoming vehicle, the hashish was discovered concealed inside "metal food cans."<br>Al-Harbi added that following the seizure, ZATCA coordinated immediately with the General Directorate of Narcotics Control (GDNC) to ensure the arrest of the intended recipients of the contraband. Consequently, the individual scheduled to receive the shipment inside the Kingdom was successfully apprehended.<br>The spokesperson emphasized that ZATCA remains committed to tightening customs control over the Kingdom’s imports and exports across all ports. He stressed that the Authority stands vigilant against smuggling attempts to fulfill its strategic pillar of enhancing community security and protection by curbing the trafficking of such toxins and other prohibited goods.<br>Al-Harbi urged the public to contribute to combating smuggling in order to safeguard society and the national economy. Reports can be submitted confidentially via the designated security hotline (1910), by email at (1910@zatca.gov.sa), or through the international number (+9661910). Informants may be eligible for a financial reward if the report’s information proves to be accurate<br><br>
ZATCA Urges Establishments Subject to WHT to Submit Forms for May 2026<div data-block="true" data-editor="63lph" data-offset-key="75a7n-0-0"><p class="ms-rteElement-P">The Zakat, Tax, and Customs Authority (ZATCA) has called on establishments subject to Withholding Tax in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to submit their withholding tax forms for last May 2026 by 10 June 2026.<br></p><p class="ms-rteElement-P">ZATCA urges establishments to promptly submit their withholding tax forms through its website (zatca.gov.sa) to avoid late payment penalties. A penalty of 1% of the unpaid tax is applied for every 30 days of delay beyond the due date.<br></p><p class="ms-rteElement-P">ZATCA called on taxpayers from the business sector wishing to obtain more information regarding withholding tax, to contact the 24/7 unified call center number (19993), or “Ask ZATCA” account on (X) (@Zatca_Care), e-mail (info@zatca.gov.sa), or through instant chats through the website (zatca.gov.sa).<br></p><p class="ms-rteElement-P">Withholding Tax is imposed on all amounts paid from a source in the Kingdom to non-resident entities that do not have a permanent establishment in the Kingdom, in accordance with the rates specified in Article 68 of the Income Tax Law and Article 63 of its Implementing Regulations.<br></p></div>
ZATCA Urges Establishments Subject to Excise Tax to File Their Returns for March and April 2026<p></p>he Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA) urges establishments subject to excise tax to file their tax returns for March and April 2026, on a date no later than May 31, 2026.<br>ZATCA has called on establishments to expedite filing their tax returns through its website (zatca.gov.sa) to avoid the penalty for failing to submit the return within the specified period, which ranges from a minimum of 5% to a maximum of 25% of the tax value that should have been declared. This is in addition to a late payment fine of 5% of the unpaid tax amount for each month of delay or part thereof.<br>In the meantime, ZATCA invites taxpayers of the business sector who wish to learn more about the excise tax to reach out through the unified call center number (19993), operating 24/7, or the "Ask Zakat, Tax and Customs" account on the (X) platform (@Zatca_Care), or via email (info@zatca.gov.sa), or through the instant chat service available on the Authority's website (zatca.gov.sa).<br>The Excise Tax is one of the tax systems in force in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; the tax is levied at various rates on goods that have an adverse effect on public health or the environment, which include energy drinks, sweetened drinks, tobacco, and its derivatives.
ZATCA Urges Establishments to Submit VAT Returns for April 2026<p></p>The Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA) urged business sector establishments subject to VAT, with goods and service revenues exceeding SAR 40 million to file their tax returns for April 2026. The deadline for submission is no later than May 31, 2026.<br>ZATCA has called on establishments to file their tax returns immediately through ZATCA’s App. A fine shall be imposed for failure to file the tax returns within the specified period. The minimum fine shall be 5% whereas the maximum fine 25% of the value of the tax that must be declared.<br>In the meantime, ZATCA invites taxpayers of business sector who wish to learn more about VAT to reach out through the call center unified No. (19993), operating 24/7, or "Ask Zakat, Tax and Customs" account on (X) platform (@Zatca_Care), or through email (info@zatca.gov.sa), or by instant chat on the website (zatca.gov.sa).<br>The VAT is a tax law in force in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, as an indirect tax imposed on all goods and services that are bought and sold by businesses, with a few exceptions.
ZATCA: “Shipment Tracking” service is available for individuals through ZATCA App for smart phones<p></p>Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA) said that “Shipment Tracking" service is available for its individual importer customers through ZATCA App for smart phones. They will be allowed, then, to know the customs route of shipments through tracking their incoming shipments through express shipping companies within customs scope.<br>ZATCA's spokesperson, Mr. Hamoud Al Harbi stated that importers can, through express shipping, inquire about shipment status using shipment tracking number or customs declaration Number. Accordingly, the shipment status and due customs duties will be viewed. He further noted that the service is also available through ZATCA's website via Electronic Services page.<br>He stated that the service helps facilitate knowing the status of the shipment at the customs port and verifying that it has reached the customs procedures stage with ease and simplicity through clear and streamlined steps. He emphasized that ZATCA, through such services, seeks to enhance the efficiency and quality of customs services provided to its customers across different categories, in line with best practices, thereby contributing to building an effective customs system that ensures optimal utilization of the services it provides.<br>Al Harbi indicated that if there are any inquiries regarding the zakat, tax, and customs electronic services provided by ZATCA, you can contact us via the unified call center number (19993), which operates 24/7, through “Ask ZATCA" account on X platform (@Zatca_Care), via email (info@zatca.gov.sa), or through live chat service available on the ZATCA's website (zatca.gov.sa).
ZATCA at Jeddah Islamic Port Thwarts Attempt to Smuggle More Than 8 k of Cocaine <p class="ms-rteElement-P"></p><p class="ms-rteElement-P">The Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA) at Jeddah Islamic Port has successfully foiled an attempt to smuggle 8.41 kilograms of cocaine, which was concealed inside a shipping container arriving in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia through the port.<br></p><p class="ms-rteElement-P">The official spokesperson for ZATCA, Hammoud Al-Harbi, stated that during the customs inspection procedures on one of the containers, using advanced security technologies and K9, the aforementioned quantity of cocaine was discovered hidden within the container’s air conditioning unit.<br></p><p class="ms-rteElement-P">The spokesperson emphasized that ZATCA remains committed to tightening customs control over the Kingdom’s imports and exports across all ports. He stressed that the Authority stands vigilant against smuggling attempts to fulfill its strategic pillar of enhancing community security and protection by curbing the trafficking of such toxins and other prohibited goods.<br></p><p class="ms-rteElement-P">Al-Harbi urged the public to contribute to combating smuggling in order to safeguard society and the national economy. Reports can be submitted confidentially via the designated security hotline (1910), by email at (1910@zatca.gov.sa), or through the international number (+9661910). Informants may be eligible for a financial reward if the report’s information proves to be accurate.<br></p>