The SABER Certificate is required for any products imported into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). The SABER platform, managed by the Saudi Product Safety Program (SALEEM) and overseen by SASO (Saudi Standards, Metrology, and Quality Organization), is designed to speed up the registration and approval process for both controlled and uncontrolled products.
In this guide, we will lead you through every crucial element of the SABER certification process, including registration stages, required paperwork, and associated fees, so you can export your products to Saudi Arabia promptly and compliantly.
What is the SABER Certificate?
The SABER Certificate is an online conformity assessment system that ensures a product’s adherence to Saudi Technical Regulations before it reaches the Saudi market. The portal serves as a digital interface for importers, SASO-accredited Conformity Assessment Bodies (CABs), and Saudi Customs.
The SABER system divides products into two categories.
Regulated Products: Must comply with stringent technical regulations and require further certification.
Non-Regulated Products: Registration is still required, but the verification process is simpler.
Why is the SABER Certificate mandatory in Saudi Arabia?
Saudi Arabia mandates SABER certification for:
Ensure customer safety.
Prevent the introduction of counterfeit or noncompliant items.
Facilitate speedier customs clearance.
Encourage uniformity and product traceability.
Every importer in Saudi Arabia must get the required Product Certificate of Conformity (PCoC) and Shipment Certificate of Conformity (SCoC) for each product using the SABER portal.
SABER Certification Process: 1. Product Certificate of Conformity (PCoC)
The PCoC validates that a given product conforms with the applicable Technical Regulations. It is valid for one year and was issued by an SASO-approved Certification Body.
2. Shipping Certificate of Conformity (SCoC)
Each shipment of certified products must be accompanied by a SCoC, which certifies that the products in the consignment correspond to the certified models in the PCoC.
Step-by-Step Process for Obtaining the SABER Certificate
Step 1: Importer Registration on the SABER Platform.
The initial step for the Saudi importer is to register on the SABER platform with their commercial registration (CR).
Step 2: Product Registration.
Products must be registered in the relevant category, whether regulated or unregulated. Importers must enter details such as:
Product Name and Model
Manufacturer’s details
Country of Origin
HS code
Step 3: Select the Certification Body.
For regulated products, an SASO-approved Conformity Assessment Body (CAB) must be used. This CAB assesses your product and issues the PCoC after a successful assessment.
Step 4: Submit the Required Documents.
Typical documentation contains:
Test results from ISO/IEC 17025 approved laboratories.
Product datasheets and specs
Quality management certifications (such as ISO 9001)
Technical files (drawings and manuals)
Step 5: Product Evaluation and PCoC Issuance.
The CAB analyzes the documentation and test results. If compliant, the Product Certificate of Conformity (PCoC) is issued and submitted to the SABER system.
Step 6: Shipment Certificate Application (SCoC).
Before the shipment is sent, the importer must request the SCoC using the SABER platform, referencing the valid PCoC. The CAB evaluates and approves shipment documents for issuance.
Documents Required for SABER Certificate: Commercial Invoice.
Certificate of Origin
Product Technical File
Laboratory Test Reports (IEC/ISO Standard)
Product Images
HS Code
Authorized Representative’s Letter (if appropriate)
Quality Management System Certificate (if applicable)
SABER Certificate Validation and Renewal
PCoC Validity: one year; renewable annually.
SCoC Validity: per shipment basis.
Renewal of the PCoC entails resubmitting updated papers or proving that no changes have been made to the product since the last certification.
Who issues the SABER certificate?
SABER certificates are granted by SASO-accredited Conformity Assessment Bodies based in Saudi Arabia and overseas. These organizations are responsible for:
Evaluating Product Compliance
Issuing certificates in accordance with the necessary technical regulations
Communicating directly with SABER and SASO
Some recognized CABs are:
TÜV Rheinland
SGS
Intertek
Bureau Veritas
UL
Applus+
QIMA
What Products Require SABER Certification?
Examples of regulated products are:
Electrical equipment (such as washing machines and air conditioners)
Children’s toys.
Building Materials
Lubricating Oils
Vehicle Spare Parts
Textiles
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
A comprehensive list of regulated products can be obtained on SASO’s website or via the SABER platform.
SABER Certificate Fees in Saudi Arabia.
Costs vary depending on the product category and certification body. However, the normal pricing structure includes:
PCoC Fee: SAR 500 to SAR 1,200 (by product and model)
SCoC Fee: SAR 350-650 (per shipment)
CABs may also charge extra evaluation or testing costs based on the product’s complexity.
Penalties for Noncompliance
Importing products without a valid SABER Certificate may lead to:
Customs clearance delays.
Product rejection or return.
Heavy fines or penalties.
Legal action and possible blacklisting.
SABER Certification Offers Importers Streamlined Clearance: Digital verification expedites customs release.
Market Access: Gain entrée into the rapidly expanding Saudi Arabian market.
Consumer Trust: demonstrates a dedication to product safety and quality.
Regulatory Assurance: Maintain compliance with ever-changing Saudi rules.
How We Can Help You Obtain the SABER Certificate
We assist both global exporters and Saudi importers in navigating the SABER registration process. We provide the following services:
Product Classification Guidance
Document preparation and review.
Communicating with SASO-approved CABs
Managing renewals and shipment certificates.
Providing complete compliance support
With our technical knowledge and local expertise, we ensure that your product enters the Saudi market smoothly.
Conclusion
Obtaining the SABER Certificate for Saudi Arabia is more than just a regulatory need; it is a vital entry point for organizations looking to trade safely and lawfully in the Saudi market. Whether you are an experienced exporter or a new business looking to enter Saudi Arabia, understanding and complying with the SABER regulations is crucial.
Take action today to verify that your products meet the Saudi Conformity Assessment requirements. In one of the most profitable marketplaces in the Middle East, a small investment in compliance can yield big returns.
