What is FASAH? Saudi Arabia's customs platform explained
FASAH (فسح) is Saudi Arabia's national single-window platform connecting importers, customs brokers, carriers, ports and ZATCA in one electronic workflow. Every commercial customs declaration in the Kingdom passes through FASAH, and cargo is physically released from the port only after FASAH issues the release. Importers do not need to operate it themselves: Clearway, an independent licensed brokerage, files in FASAH under power of attorney.
What does FASAH actually do?
FASAH digitised the entire customs cycle: declaration filing, document upload, duty assessment, SABER and SFDA certificate checks, inspection scheduling and the final release order live in one system connected to ZATCA (Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority).
- Importers and brokers file customs declarations (bayan).
- Shipping lines and airlines submit manifests.
- Ports and inspection channels receive instructions electronically.
- ZATCA assesses duty (most goods 5% of CIF) and 15% VAT.
- The release order (فسح) unlocks physical delivery of the cargo.
Who is required to use FASAH?
Any commercial import or export moving through Saudi ports, airports or land crossings is processed in FASAH. Two parties can file: the importing company itself, or a licensed customs broker under a registered power of attorney. In practice the overwhelming majority of cargo is cleared by brokers: the platform is Arabic-first, and filing errors carry financial penalties.
Clearway files FASAH declarations daily at Jeddah, Dammam and Riyadh. The client sends shipping documents by WhatsApp or email; the broker classifies HS codes, files the bayan, pays duties on the client's behalf and returns the release order, usually within 1–3 working days of arrival.
FASAH vs ZATCA vs SABER: what's the difference?
These three names confuse most first-time importers. ZATCA is the government authority that makes customs decisions. FASAH is the workflow platform where declarations are processed. SABER is a separate SASO platform for product-conformity certificates, which FASAH checks automatically during clearance. You register products in SABER before shipping and clear the shipment in FASAH after arrival.
Send the cargo, we handle FASAH
Leave your number. A licensed broker replies within 30 minutes during working hours (Sun–Thu, 9:00–18:00 KSA).
Frequently asked questions
Is FASAH a government website?
FASAH is the Kingdom's official single-window platform for customs operations, operated in coordination with ZATCA. Customs decisions are made by ZATCA; FASAH is the electronic workflow.
Can I clear cargo without FASAH?
No. Commercial cargo is released only after a declaration is processed and a release order is issued in FASAH.
Do I need to register in FASAH myself?
Not if you work with a broker. Clearway files under power of attorney, so clients never log into the platform.
How long does a FASAH release take?
With complete documents and valid certificates: typically 1–3 working days from vessel arrival, often same-day when the declaration is filed pre-arrival.
Send the cargo, we handle FASAH
Leave your number. A licensed broker replies within 30 minutes during working hours (Sun–Thu, 9:00–18:00 KSA).