Below is a detailed breakdown of the actual process and core timelines for SASO 2938:2019 certification in 2026, with a focus on easily overlooked details that cause costly delays.

Core SASO 2938:2019 Certification Insight for 2026

First, dispel a common misconception: certification is not a one-way process where the manufacturer submits documents step-by-step. It requires tight collaboration between four parties: the exporter (you), the certification body, the testing laboratory, and the Saudi importer. Most delays stem from poor collaboration. The process is divided into four key phases, with a total timeline of 8 to 16 weeks (highly variable).

  2026 SASO 2938:2019 Certification Process & Detailed Timelines

Phase 1: Preparations & Document Review (≈2–3 Weeks)

This phase is where many projects fail at the starting line—the goal is to ensure your documentation is flawless.

Key Actions

1.Select and sign a contract with a certification body: Provide detailed product information (specifications, circuit schematics, photos) to receive an initial evaluation and quote.

2.Initiate document pre-audit: The core of efficient 2026 compliance—your certification body will review technical documents, user manuals, and label designs to ensure full compliance with SASO 2938 and Saudi Arabic labeling regulations.

3.Verify Saudi importer information: Confirm your Saudi partner has a valid Commercial Registration (CR) document and is fully committed to supporting Saber Platform operations.

  2026 Audit Priorities & Timeline Drivers

·Model consistency: Model codes on product nameplates, user manuals, and test applications must be 100% identical. A single character or symbol difference will result in rejection of all subsequent phases—the pre-audit is designed to catch these errors.

·Labels and QR codes: Energy efficiency label design (size, content, format) and QR code generation must meet the latest requirements; the body will verify accurate QR code redirection.

·Timeline variability: 1–2 weeks if documentation is fully prepared; up to 1 month if repeated revisions are needed.

Phase 2: Core Product Testing (≈4–8 Weeks, Most Variable)

This is the technical core and primary time cost—especially for DAB+ digital broadcast reception performance testing.

Key Actions

1.Sample shipment and testing: Ship samples to the SASO-accredited laboratory arranged by your certification body (typically overseas).

2.Full standard testing: The laboratory conducts testing in compliance with SASO 2938, with a focus on DAB+ reception sensitivity and anti-interference capabilities.

  2026 Top Risks & Timeline Drivers

-High DAB+ testing failure rate: As noted earlier, this is the biggest "time trap" with a high initial failure rate. A failure requires:

·Laboratory issuance of a non-conformity report (≈1–2 weeks).

·Root cause analysis and product design rectification by your engineering team (1–4 weeks, variable).

·Re-sample production and shipment (≈1–2 weeks).

·Laboratory retest scheduling (additional 2–4 weeks for queueing).

-Value of pre-testing: Reputable providers recommend a pre-test or design validation at a qualified laboratory to identify issues early. While this adds ≈1–2 weeks and a small upfront cost, it avoids months of delays and higher retest fees from official testing failures.

-Baseline timeline: 4–6 weeks for one-time testing success (including laboratory queueing and report issuance); up to 16+ weeks if rectification and retesting are required.

Phase 3: Saber Platform Application & Saudi Official Audit (≈2–3 Weeks)

After successful testing, the process moves to official administrative steps. Critical note: The legal applicant for certification is your Saudi importer.

Key Actions

1.Apply for Product Conformity Certificate (PCoC): Your Saudi importer submits a PCoC application via their Saber account, with the full document package (including test reports) prepared with support from your certification body.

2.Saudi official audit: SASO or its authorized audit body conducts document review.

  2026 Audit Trends & Timeline Drivers

·Document traceability audit: Auditors may randomly request procurement source documentation for key components (e.g., RF chips) to verify supply chain authenticity.

·Localization inquiry: The system may trigger an inquiry about potential competition with local Saudi industries, requiring a formal response.

·Timeline variability: 1–2 weeks for audit and issuance if documents are complete and no inquiries are raised; an additional 1–2 weeks per inquiry for response and re-audit.

Phase 4: Certificate Issuance & Post-Certification Operations (Ongoing)

Key Actions

1.Obtain PCoC: The PCoC is issued to the importer’s Saber account, with a typical 1-year validity (counting from the test report issuance date).

2.Apply for Shipment Conformity Certificate (SCoC) before shipping: For each shipment, the same importer applies for a dedicated SCoC via the valid PCoC (submitting the batch’s invoice, packing list, and bill of lading number).

3.The SCoC is the customs clearance document—Saudi customs will release shipments only with a valid SCoC.

We hope this 2026 SASO 2938:2019 certification process and timeline breakdown provides a solid, practical framework for your compliance planning. If you need a deeper dive into a specific phase (e.g., the specific challenges of DAB+ testing), BLUEASIA at +86 13534225140 offers professional certification consulting services.