SABER (Saudi Product Safety Program SALEEM) is the mandatory product conformity assessment scheme launched by the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO). According to the latest official notification, effective January 1, 2025, all goods exported to Saudi Arabia must obtain the required certificates through the SABER online platform to clear customs.
| Certification Element | Specific Description |
| Core New Regulation | From Jan 1, 2025, all shipments to Saudi Arabia require certificates via SABER. Post-shipment application is non-compliant and will result in failed customs clearance. |
| Two Core Certificates | -PC (Product Certificate): The product's "ID card," typically valid for 1 year. -SC (Shipment Certificate):The shipment's "passport," valid for a single consignment only. |
| Application Entity | Requires a local Saudi importer registered on the SABER platform to submit the application. |
| Key Timeline | -PC Certificate:Apply weeks in advance; involves testing and review. -SC Certificate:Apply after shipment dispatch but before Saudi port arrival; review takes approx. 1-2 business days. |
SABER Certification Step-by-Step:
The SABER certification process involves two core steps, as outlined below for your planning.
Step 1: Obtain the PC (Product Certificate)
The PC certifies the product's safety and compliance and is the foundation for the SC. The acquisition path varies by product category:
| Certification Path | Applicable Products | Core Requirements |
| CoC Direct Certification | Many medium-low risk products (e.g., some textiles, household items). | Submit recognized third-party test reports; some products may require factory inspection. |
| IECEE Certification | Some electronic/electrical products (e.g., mobile phones, lamps, computers). | Provide valid CB Certificate and CB Test Report (with national deviations); apply online for conversion. |
| GCC Certification | Some household appliances (e.g., sockets, plugs, fans). | Pass GCC testing, obtain GCC Certificate, then apply for the PC in SABER. |
| QM Certification | High-risk products (e.g., gas appliances, tiles). | Requires mandatory factory audit (QM Certification) by SASO; can take 2-6 months. |
Step 2: Apply for the SC (Shipment Certificate) for Each Shipment
After securing a valid PC, each export shipment requires a separate SC.
·When to Apply: After goods are shipped but before they arrive at a Saudi port.
·Required Documents: Primarily the commercial invoice and packing list for that shipment.
·Review & Issuance: After application submission and fee payment, the CB reviews the documents. Upon approval, the SC is issued online, usually within 1-2 business days.
⚠️Important Reminders & Latest Updates:
1.Apply Early:All SABER certificates MUST be issued before the goods arrive at a Saudi port. Applications made after arrival are invalid and will prevent customs clearance, potentially incurring fines and demurrage charges.
2.Check Specific Product Requirements: Effective April 17, 2025, certain products (e.g., toilet paper, baby diapers, tiles, car batteries) require additional approval from the Saudi Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources (MOCI) during the SABER process. Verify if your product is affected.
3.Note Barcode & Language Requirements: A 13-digit barcode for the product is often required for the SC application. Product labeling, instructions, and warnings should be in Arabic or bilingual (Arabic/English).
We hope this overview of SABER certification helps you plan your exports effectively. If you can specify your product category, BLUEASIA might provide more targeted information, such as specific certification paths and standards for that category.
BLUEASIA: +86 13534225140, provides professional certification consulting services!
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