Ensuring your vehicle insurance is valid is not just a legal requirement in Saudi Arabia; itโs essential for your safety and financial protection. Whether you’re a Saudi citizen or an expatriate, knowing how to check vehicle insurance validity helps you stay compliant with the law and protects you from hefty fines, Saher penalties, and unnecessary legal complications.
Why Checking Vehicle Insurance Validity Matters in Saudi Arabia
Vehicle insurance is mandatory in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia under the Cooperative Insurance Companies Control Law. Driving without valid insurance can result in:
| Violation | Penalty (SAR) | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|
| Driving without insurance | 500 – 900 | Vehicle impoundment |
| Expired insurance (first offense) | 500 | Warning issued |
| Expired insurance (repeat offense) | 900 | License suspension possible |
| Causing accident without insurance | 1,000+ | Full liability for damages |
Important: As of 2026, traffic cameras (Saher) automatically detect vehicles with expired insurance, triggering immediate fines.
Methods to Check Vehicle Insurance Validity in Saudi Arabia
1. Check Vehicle Insurance Through Absher Platform
Absher is the primary government e-services portal and the most reliable method for checking insurance validity.
Step-by-Step Process:
- Visit the Absher website: Go to absher.sa
- Log in to your account: Enter your username and password
- Navigate to Services: Select “Individuals” from the main menu
- Access Traffic Services: Click on “Traffic Services” (ุงูู ุฑูุฑ)
- Select Vehicle Information: Choose “Vehicle Information Query”
- View Insurance Status: Your insurance validity date will be displayed
Required Information:
- National ID or Iqama number
- Absher login credentials
- Vehicle sequence number (if checking specific vehicle)
Pro Tip: Download the Absher mobile app for quick access on iOS and Android devices.
2. Check Insurance via Najm Platform
Najm for Insurance Services is the authorized accident reporting company in Saudi Arabia and offers insurance verification services.
How to Check Through Najm:
- Visit najm.sa
- Click on “Services” menu
- Select “Insurance Policy Inquiry”
- Enter your vehicle’s plate number and registration details
- View your current insurance status and expiry date
Najm Services Also Include:
- Accident reporting
- Insurance claims processing
- Damage assessment
- Policy history review
3. Verify Insurance Through Tameeni
Tameeni is Saudi Arabia’s leading insurance comparison platform, offering quick policy verification.
Steps to Check via Tameeni:
- Go to tameeni.com
- Log in or create an account
- Access “My Policies” section
- View all active and expired policies
- Download insurance certificates if needed
Benefits of Using Tameeni:
- Compare prices from 25+ insurance companies
- Instant policy renewal
- Digital insurance cards
- Claims tracking
4. Check Through Your Insurance Company Directly
Most insurance providers in Saudi Arabia offer online portals and mobile apps for policy management.
Major Insurance Companies in Saudi Arabia (2026):
| Insurance Company | Website | Mobile App |
|---|---|---|
| Tawuniya | tawuniya.com.sa | โ |
| Bupa Arabia | bupa.com.sa | โ |
| Al Rajhi Takaful | alrajhitakaful.com | โ |
| Walaa Insurance | walaa.com | โ |
| Gulf Union Insurance | gulfunion.com.sa | โ |
| Malath Insurance | malath.com.sa | โ |
5. SMS Service Verification
Some insurance companies offer SMS-based verification services.
How to Use SMS Verification:
- Send your vehicle plate number to the designated short code
- Receive instant confirmation of insurance status
- Get expiry date and policy details
Note:ย Check with your specific insurance provider for their SMS service availability and codes.
Understanding Vehicle Insurance Types in Saudi Arabia
Mandatory Third-Party Liability Insurance
Required by law for all vehicles, this covers:
- Bodily injury to third parties
- Property damage to others
- Minimum coverage: SAR 10 million for bodily injury
Comprehensive Insurance
Optional but recommended coverage including:
- Theft and fire damage
- Natural disasters
- Personal accident coverage
- Own vehicle damage
Insurance Coverage Comparison Chart
INSURANCE COVERAGE COMPARISON 2026
| Coverage Type | Third-Party | Comprehensive |
|---|---|---|
| Third-party damage | โ | โ |
| Third-party injury | โ | โ |
| Own vehicle damage | โ | โ |
| Theft protection | โ | โ |
| Natural disasters | โ | โ |
| Personal accident | โ | โ |
| Average Cost (SAR) | 700 โ 1,500 | 2,500 โ 6,000 |
Required Documents for Insurance Verification and Renewal
When checking or renewing your vehicle insurance, ensure you have:
For Saudi Citizens:
- National ID (Hawiya)
- Vehicle registration (Istimara)
- Driving license
- Previous insurance policy (if applicable)
For Expatriates:
- Valid Iqama
- Vehicle registration (Istimara)
- Valid driving license
- Passport copy
- Previous insurance documents
Vehicle Insurance Statistics in Saudi Arabia (2026)
Understanding the insurance landscape helps make informed decisions:
| Metric | 2025 Data | 2026 Projection |
|---|---|---|
| Registered vehicles | 12.5 million | 13.2 million |
| Insured vehicles | 11.8 million | 12.8 million |
| Average premium (Third-party) | SAR 1,100 | SAR 1,150 |
| Average premium (Comprehensive) | SAR 3,800 | SAR 4,000 |
| Insurance penetration rate | 94% | 97% |
| Digital policy purchases | 72% | 80% |
Common Issues and Solutions When Checking Insurance
Issue 1: Insurance Shows Expired Despite Recent Renewal
Solution: Wait 24-48 hours for system updates. Contact your insurance provider if the issue persists.
Issue 2: Cannot Access Absher Account
Solution:ย Reset password through the platform or visit a nearest Absher service center.
Issue 3: Vehicle Not Showing in System
Solution: Verify vehicle ownership transfer is complete. Contact Muroor (Traffic Department) if needed.
Issue 4: Insurance Information Mismatch
Solution: Contact your insurance company to update records. Ensure Iqama/ID information is current.
How to Renew Vehicle Insurance in Saudi Arabia
Online Renewal Process:
- Compare quotes on Tameeni or similar platforms
- Select preferred coverage based on your needs
- Provide required documents digitally
- Complete payment via SADAD, credit card, or Apple Pay
- Receive digital policy instantly via email/SMS
- Download insurance certificate for your records
Renewal Timeline Recommendations:
| Time Before Expiry | Action Required |
|---|---|
| 30 days | Start comparing quotes |
| 14 days | Finalize and purchase policy |
| 7 days | Ensure new policy is active |
| 0 days | Risk of fines begins |
Tips for Getting the Best Insurance Rates in 2026
- Maintain a clean driving record: No accidents or violations reduce premiums
- Install approved tracking devices: Some insurers offer discounts up to 15%
- Compare multiple providers: Use aggregator platforms like Tameeni
- Consider annual payment: Avoid installment fees
- Review coverage needs: Don’t over-insure or under-insure
- Check for employer discounts: Corporate partnerships often offer better rates
Conclusion
Checking your vehicle insurance validity in Saudi Arabia is a straightforward process with multiple convenient options available in 2026. Whether you prefer using Absher, Najm, Tameeni, or directly contacting your insurance provider, staying informed about your coverage status is essential.
Regular verification helps you avoid fines, ensures legal compliance, and provides peace of mind while driving on Saudi roads. Set calendar reminders for renewal dates and take advantage of digital platforms for seamless insurance management.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is international driving insurance valid in Saudi Arabia?
No, you must have insurance from a SAMA-licensed company operating in Saudi Arabia.
Can I drive with an expired insurance while waiting for renewal?
No, this is illegal. Ensure continuous coverage by renewing before expiry.
What happens if I’m in an accident with expired insurance?
You become fully liable for all damages and may face legal penalties including vehicle impoundment.
How long does insurance renewal take to reflect in the system?
Typically 24-48 hours, though some updates may take up to 72 hours.
Can I check someone else’s vehicle insurance?
You can only check insurance for vehicles registered under your name or with the owner’s authorization through Absher.
