Exporting coffee to Saudi Arabia and the Gulf: demand, rules and tips

Saudi Arabia has become one of the most important coffee markets in the world. Traditional Saudi coffee, lightly roasted and spiced, is part of daily life, and specialty cafés are booming across the Gulf. This guide explains the demand, the import rules and how exporters can prepare.

Updated November 1, 2026 · 4 sources

The market

Saudi Arabia imported coffee and tea worth about SAR 6.99 billion (USD 1.86 billion) in 2025. Ethiopia is the leading supplier, with about USD 431 million, and Saudi Arabia was the largest buyer of Ethiopian coffee by volume in 2023/24, taking more than 1 million 60 kg bags. Demand is shifting toward premium, traceable and single-origin coffees. Saudi Arabia also grows its own Khawlani arabica in the highlands of Jazan. In the wider Gulf, the United Arab Emirates is a top buyer of Indian coffee and a re-export hub.

What buyers want

Traditional Saudi coffee uses light roasts, so buyers often prefer arabicas with clean, sweet and fruity cups, and Ethiopian naturals are a classic choice.
Specialty roasters want traceable lots with cup scores, washing station or farm details and consistent quality.
Hospitality and retail buyers value reliable supply and clear documentation.

Import rules

Green coffee beans in their natural state need a phytosanitary certificate from the exporting country. No import permit or additional declaration is required, according to Australia's export database checked in April 2025.
Consignments must be free from pests, soil, weed seeds and foreign material.
Processed coffee or coffee with additives falls under the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA), so roasters and blenders should check SFDA requirements.
Rules can change: confirm current requirements with the buyer and the Saudi authorities before shipping.

Tips for exporters

Send roasted and green samples with a full specification sheet; light-roast performance matters.
Agree safe payment terms such as a letter of credit or cash against documents; see how to buy green coffee directly.
Ship dry coffee in liners for hot routes and plan the port of entry with the buyer; see shipping green coffee.
Ethiopian exporters should read our Ethiopia guide for ECTA minimum prices and contract registration.

Frequently asked questions

How big is Saudi Arabia's coffee market?

Saudi Arabia imported coffee and tea worth about USD 1.86 billion in 2025, with Ethiopia the leading supplier.

What documents does green coffee need for Saudi Arabia?

A phytosanitary certificate from the exporting country. Green beans in their natural state need no import permit; processed coffee falls under the SFDA.

What coffee do Saudi buyers like?

Traditional Saudi coffee uses light roasts, so clean, sweet and fruity arabicas such as Ethiopian naturals are popular, alongside specialty single origins.

Sources

Checked on November 1, 2026. Laws, rules and prices change: always check the official source before you trade. This guide is general information, not legal advice.