Definition

The SABER Platform is Saudi Arabia's mandatory electronic certification and conformity assessment system operated by the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO). This digital platform ensures that all imported and locally manufactured products meet the Kingdom's safety, technical, and quality standards before entering the Saudi market. As of January 1, 2025, new regulations require all goods exported to Saudi Arabia to obtain both Product Conformity Certificates (PCoC) and Shipment Conformity Certificates (SCoC) through the SABER system.

Key Features/Components

• Product Certificate of Conformity (PCoC): A one-year validity certificate that confirms products comply with Saudi technical regulations and standards, serving as a prerequisite for market entry.
• Shipment Certificate of Conformity (SCoC): Required for each individual shipment entering Saudi Arabia, ensuring specific batches meet customs clearance requirements and align with the corresponding PCoC.
• Dual Product Classification: The system categorizes products as either regulated (requiring third-party certification) or non-regulated (allowing self-declaration), with different compliance pathways for each category.
• Digital Integration: The platform connects importers, SASO-approved certification bodies, and Saudi customs authorities in one unified online system for streamlined processing.

Application in KSA

Since February 2020, SABER certification has been mandatory for all commercial shipments entering Saudi Arabia, replacing the previous SASO Certificate of Conformity system. The platform supports Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 economic transformation by ensuring only high-quality, compliant products enter the domestic market. Products within scope include electronics, machinery, cosmetics, textiles, toys, building materials, household appliances, and other consumer goods subject to Saudi technical regulations. The system safeguards consumers from non-conforming or hazardous products while ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and Islamic Sharia principles.

Compliance Requirements

Businesses must ensure their products meet specific documentation and certification standards. The 2025 regulations mandate that previously acceptable "Undertaking Letters" are no longer valid for customs clearance, and post-arrival SCoC applications are considered invalid. Companies must work with SASO-accredited Certification Bodies for conformity assessments, with the platform listing all approved bodies authorized to issue certificates. Arabic labeling and marking requirements are mandatory for all products in accordance with Saudi regulations. Registration fees are 500 SR per certificate, except for equivalent certificates issued by SASO which are free.

Common Challenges

Documentation Complexity: Businesses often struggle with preparing comprehensive technical documentation, including product manuals, test reports, and manufacturer qualification proofs, which must be submitted at least 30 days before shipment. Classification Uncertainty: Determining whether products fall under regulated or non-regulated categories can be challenging, particularly for new or innovative products that may not clearly fit existing SASO technical regulation categories. Timing Coordination: The requirement for pre-shipment SCoC applications means businesses must carefully coordinate certification timing with their supply chain logistics to avoid customs delays.

Best Practices

Early Preparation: Begin the product compliance process well in advance, applying for certificates at least 30 days before planned shipment dates to ensure smooth customs clearance. Strategic Partnership: Establish relationships with Saudi importers or local representatives, as foreign exporters cannot register directly with SABER and must work through Saudi-based partners. Cloud accounting platforms like Mezan provide comprehensive financial analysis tools that help streamline SABER platform compliance tracking and efficiently manage financial data related to certification costs and import procedures.

For expert guidance on SABER Platform requirements and compliance, consider consulting with business advisors.