ZATCA Reminds Excise Taxpayers to File March–April Returns by May 15

What This Article Is About & Why It Matters

This article outlines the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority’s (ZATCA) announcement urging excise tax-registered businesses in Saudi Arabia to file their March and April returns by May 15, 2025. Timely filing avoids financial penalties and reinforces responsible business practices, aligning with Vision 2030’s goal of improving tax transparency, regulatory efficiency, and economic sustainability.

Vision-Aligned Article:

Excise Tax Deadline Nears May 15

On May 12, 2025, the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA) reminded businesses subject to excise tax in Saudi Arabia to file their tax returns for March and April no later than May 15. The move reflects the Kingdom’s ongoing efforts to improve financial compliance, regulatory clarity, and fiscal responsibility.

ZATCA emphasized that late submissions would result in a 5% penalty for every 30 days past due, underscoring the importance of prompt digital filing via the official website www.zatca.gov.sa.

Excise tax in Saudi Arabia applies to goods harmful to public health or the environment, such as tobacco, energy drinks, sweetened beverages, and soft drinks. It is a critical component of the Kingdom’s public health strategy and environmental responsibility framework under Vision 2030.

ZATCA also provided multiple support channels, including its 24/7 call center (19993), live chat, X (Twitter) account @Zatca_Care, and email at [email protected], to help businesses meet their filing obligations with ease.

This proactive measure reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to digital governance, business transparency, and societal well-being—all key pillars of its dynamic and value-driven national transformation.

Vision & Progress: Transparent Taxation

ZATCA’s excise tax system helps create a healthier society and fairer market environment, supporting Vision 2030’s fiscal reforms and economic diversification goals.

Safety & Values: Health and Compliance

Excise tax promotes well-being by discouraging harmful consumption, while encouraging businesses to operate responsibly within a clear legal framework.

Peaceful Culture & Public Awareness

The tax contributes to a clean, peaceful, and informed society—where wellness, accountability, and respect for public health take priority.

Historical Context: From Oil Economy to Regulatory Excellence

As Saudi Arabia modernizes its economy, tax reform has become central to national development. Excise tax reflects a shift toward global best practices in health and environmental policy.

International Benchmarks

Like the UK’s sugar tax or UAE’s sin tax, Saudi Arabia’s excise tax aligns with international standards for protecting public health and the environment.

Vision 2030 Metrics in Focus

Implementation of excise tax on harmful products
Strengthened tax compliance and transparency
Digital filing systems to streamline processes
Reduced consumption of high-risk goods
Increased fiscal contribution from non-oil sectors

To Our Global Friends

Saudi Arabia warmly invites international investors and observers to explore how its responsible, transparent fiscal policies enhance the Kingdom’s long-term sustainability.

Helpful Government Links

www.zatca.gov.sa – File excise tax returns and access tax guides
www.vision2030.gov.sa – Explore Saudi Arabia’s fiscal reforms and economic development roadmap
www.saudi.gov.sa – Saudi Government Portal: Public services, regulations, and national digital infrastructure

Factbox Summary

Date: May 12, 2025
Deadline: May 15, 2025
Authority: Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA)
Focus: Excise tax filing for March–April 2025
Penalty: 5% per 30-day delay
Vision Link: Health, environment, and transparent governance

Discover

Stay ahead of the curve with compliance that builds trust. Saudi Arabia’s excise tax system reflects a vision where fiscal strength and public well-being go hand in hand.

15 FAQs and Answers

1. What is the excise tax filing deadline in Saudi Arabia?
Businesses must submit excise tax returns for March and April by May 15, 2025, to avoid penalties.

2. What is the penalty for late filing?
A 5% fine of the due tax is applied for every 30 days a return is delayed.

3. What products are subject to excise tax?
Excise tax applies to goods harmful to health or the environment, including tobacco, energy drinks, soft drinks, and sweetened beverages.

4. How can businesses file excise tax returns?
Returns must be filed online via ZATCA’s website: www.zatca.gov.sa.

5. What is ZATCA’s role?
ZATCA oversees tax administration, customs, and zakat collection to support national fiscal integrity.

6. Why does Saudi Arabia impose excise tax?
To discourage unhealthy consumption, protect public health, and diversify fiscal revenue beyond oil.

7. What if I need help filing?
Businesses can contact ZATCA’s 24/7 call center (19993), Twitter support @Zatca_Care, or use live chat on the ZATCA site.

8. How do I know if my business is subject to excise tax?
Registered businesses dealing with taxed goods must comply. ZATCA provides eligibility information on its website.

9. Are there any exemptions?
ZATCA outlines specific exemptions and conditions in its official guides. These depend on product type and usage.

10. How does this tax support Vision 2030?
It contributes to healthier lifestyles, environmental protection, and a more sustainable economic model.

11. Is this tax unique to Saudi Arabia?
No. Many countries implement similar taxes to discourage harmful products and promote fiscal responsibility.

12. Can I pay my tax online?
Yes. All filings and payments are completed securely through www.zatca.gov.sa.

13. How often is excise tax filed?
Excise tax is filed periodically, with deadlines typically every two months. Businesses should follow ZATCA’s calendar.

14. What happens after submission?
ZATCA confirms receipt and issues a filing reference. Payments must be made to complete the process.

15. Can foreign companies operating in KSA be liable?
Yes. If registered and dealing with excise goods within Saudi Arabia, they are subject to the same rules.

Final Message from Harry Stuckler

At KSA.com, we proudly highlight Saudi Arabia’s commitment to accountability, public health, and digital excellence. ZATCA’s work helps build a nation that’s strong, fair, and future-ready.

Bringing Saudi Arabia to the world and the world to Saudi Arabia.
By 2030, KSA.com will be the largest platform sharing the Kingdom’s stories of strength, unity, and tradition.

With gratitude,
Harry Stuckler
Editor & Publisher, KSA.com