# AliExpress Buying Guide for Saudi Arabia — Step by Step
AliExpress is the easiest way for Saudi consumers to buy directly from China. With over 100 million products, Arabic language support, and Saudi riyal pricing, it has become one of the most popular shopping platforms in the Kingdom. This guide walks you through every step, from creating your account to receiving your package.
## Step 1: Create Your Account
Download the AliExpress app (iOS or Android) or visit aliexpress.com. Sign up using your email or phone number. We recommend using the app — it frequently offers app-only discounts of 5–15%.
**Pro tip:** Set your country to Saudi Arabia and currency to SAR immediately. This ensures you see correct prices and available shipping options.
## Step 2: Set Up Your Address
Go to "My Account" then "My Shipping Address" and add your Saudi address. Use this format:
- **Name:** Your full name (as it appears on your ID)
- **Phone:** Your Saudi mobile number with country code (+966)
- **Address:** Your full address. If you use a PO Box, include it. If you prefer, use your home address — most deliveries come through SMSA, Aramex, or Saudi Post.
**Important:** Always include your national ID number or Iqama number. Saudi customs requires this for clearance.
## Step 3: Finding Products
Use the search bar to find products. Here are tips for finding the best deals:
- **Sort by "Orders"** — Products with thousands of orders are proven winners
- **Check the seller rating** — Look for 95%+ positive feedback
- **Read reviews with photos** — Real buyer photos show you exactly what you will get
- **Compare similar products** — The same item is often sold by multiple sellers at different prices
- **Use "Choice" badges** — AliExpress Choice products come with faster shipping (7–15 days) and free returns
## Step 4: Understanding Pricing
AliExpress prices are usually displayed in SAR for Saudi users. But watch out for these common pricing tricks:
- **Shipping costs:** Some sellers list low product prices but charge high shipping. Always check the total including shipping.
- **Different SKUs:** The listed price might be for the cheapest variant. Click through to your desired color, size, or configuration to see the real price.
- **Coupons:** AliExpress offers store coupons, platform coupons, and "Select" coupons. Stack them for maximum savings.
## Step 5: Payment Methods
AliExpress accepts multiple payment methods for Saudi buyers:
- **Credit/Debit cards:** Visa, Mastercard, mada (yes, mada works)
- **Apple Pay:** Available in the iOS app
- **AliExpress Wallet:** You can top up a wallet balance
- **Cash on Delivery:** Not available for international orders
**Safety tip:** AliExpress uses Alipay's payment protection. Your money is held in escrow until you confirm receipt. This means if you never receive your item, you get a full refund.
## Step 6: Shipping Options
You will typically see these shipping options:
- **AliExpress Standard Shipping:** 15–30 days. Free or very cheap. Reliable tracking.
- **AliExpress Choice (Cainiao):** 7–15 days. Free on orders over a minimum. The fastest affordable option.
- **Seller's Shipping:** Varies wildly. Can be very slow (45–60 days). Avoid if possible.
- **DHL / FedEx:** 5–10 days. Expensive (50–200 SAR). Only worth it for urgent or expensive items.
## Step 7: Tracking Your Order
After the seller ships, you will receive a tracking number. Track it through:
- The AliExpress app (most convenient)
- 17track.net (works with all carriers)
- The Saudi Post app (once it arrives in Saudi Arabia)
Your order will show these statuses: shipped → in transit → arrived in destination country → customs clearance → out for delivery → delivered.
## Step 8: Customs and Taxes
Saudi customs charges are straightforward:
- **Items under 1,000 SAR:** Often pass through without duty
- **Items over 1,000 SAR:** 5–15% customs duty depending on the category, plus 15% VAT
- **All items:** Subject to 15% VAT regardless of value (but enforcement varies on small orders)
If customs holds your package, you will receive an SMS from Saudi Customs (Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority). Pay online through the Fasah platform or the customs app.
## Step 9: Receiving and Inspecting
When your package arrives:
1. **Film yourself opening the package** — This is your evidence if the item is damaged or wrong
2. **Check the item immediately** — Compare it to the listing photos and description
3. **Do not confirm receipt in the app yet** — You have a confirmation window. Only confirm when you are satisfied.
## Step 10: Disputes and Returns
If something is wrong:
- **Open a dispute within 15 days of delivery** — Go to your order and click "Open Dispute"
- **Provide photo/video evidence** — Clear evidence leads to faster resolution
- **Be reasonable** — AliExpress mediates disputes. If the item is slightly different from photos but still functional, asking for a partial refund is more likely to succeed than a full refund.
**AliExpress Choice items** qualify for free returns — you can send the item back at no cost.
## Bonus Tips for Saudi Buyers
- **Buy during sales events** — 11.11 (November 11), 3.28 Sale, and Ramadan Sales offer genuine discounts of 20–50%
- **Use the "Coins" feature** — Check in daily to earn coins redeemable for coupons
- **Join the affiliate program** — If you share product links and others buy, you earn commission
Happy shopping! Compare the best deals on farq.com.sa before you buy.
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