What is SABER Certification?
The SABER system is Saudi Arabia’s mandatory conformity assessment program, managed by the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO).
Its primary goal is to ensure imported goods comply with Saudi technical regulations, safety, and environmental standards, safeguarding consumers and promoting fair trade.
Core Function:
Every regulated product imported into Saudi Arabia must be registered in SABER and hold two certificates:
Product Certificate of Conformity (PCoC) – proves the product meets SASO technical regulations.
Shipment Certificate of Conformity (SCoC) – issued per shipment for customs clearance.
SABER certification evaluates compliance in the following critical areas:
1️⃣ Electrical Safety:
Dielectric strength, insulation resistance, grounding continuity.
Reference standard: IEC 60335-1.
2️⃣ Chemical Safety:
Limits on lead, cadmium, phthalates, and other hazardous substances.
Reference method: ISO 8124-3.
3️⃣ Mechanical & Physical Safety:
Structural stability, sharp edge protection, material impact resistance.
4️⃣ Energy Efficiency & EMC:
Compliance with SASO energy labeling (e.g., SASO 2874).
Covers standby power, energy efficiency, and electromagnetic compatibility.
SABER applies to nearly all imported goods under SASO’s regulation, including:
Electronics & Electrical Appliances:
Household appliances, IT devices, lighting products.
Construction Materials & Chemicals:
Steel bars, ceramic tiles, PVC pipes, lubricants, and paints.
Children’s & Consumer Products:
Toys, strollers, stationery, textiles, and food contact items.
Automotive Components:
Tires, batteries, and related accessories.
Other Regulated Categories:
Personal protective equipment (PPE), certain industrial machinery.
Exception: Cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices are regulated by the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) and not part of SABER.
SABER adopts different conformity assessment schemes according to product risk:
1. Low-Risk Products – Self-Declaration Model
Importer submits a declaration directly in SABER.
No third-party certification required.
Example: low-voltage electrical products, simple toys.
2. Medium-Risk Products – Type 1a / Type 3 Model
Requires test reports, technical documentation, and possibly factory surveillance.
Examples: sanitaryware, construction materials.
3. High-Risk Products – Type 5 Model
Requires factory inspection, QMS review, and sample testing.
Common for high-safety products like gas appliances and cement.
1. Full Mandatory Enforcement (Effective Jan 1, 2025):
All applicable imports must use SABER for certification and clearance.
Undertaking Letters are no longer accepted.
2. Additional Certification Requirements:
Saudi Energy Efficiency Label (SEEL): Air conditioners, refrigerators, washing machines.
IECEE Recognition: IT and telecom products must align with CB Test Reports.
3. Authorized Application Entity:
Only Saudi-registered importers can apply via the SABER platform.
Manufacturers/exporters cannot apply independently.
4. Platform Integration & Transparency:
SABER is fully digital and linked to Saudi Customs, ensuring traceability and reducing fraud.
✅ Plan Ahead: Certification timelines vary — ensure testing, factory audits, and documentation are complete before shipment.
✅ Use Authorized Bodies: Always choose SASO-accredited certification bodies for authenticity.
✅ Combine Certifications: If exporting energy-regulated products, plan SABER + SEEL together to avoid delays.
✅ Stay Updated: SASO frequently revises technical regulations — check product TR lists before export.
BLUEASIA provides end-to-end consulting for SABER and SASO certification, including:
Product classification & risk assessment
Document preparation & review
Testing coordination with SASO-authorized labs
PCoC / SCoC application submission
Factory audit guidance
Contact BLUEASIA for professional support:
Phone / WeChat: +86 13534225140
Email: king.guo@cblueasia.com
Website: www.blueasialabs.com
Q1: What’s the difference between PCoC and SCoC?
The PCoC (Product Certificate) confirms the product meets Saudi technical regulations and is valid for one year.
The SCoC (Shipment Certificate) is issued per shipment for customs clearance.
Q2: Can exporters apply directly for SABER certification?
No. Only Saudi-registered importers can apply through the SABER portal. Exporters must cooperate with their importer.
Q3: How long does SABER certification take?
Typically, the PCoC takes 2–4 weeks, while SCoC approval is often completed within 1 business day after submission.
Q4: What happens if goods arrive without SABER certification?
The goods will be detained by Saudi Customs and cannot clear entry. Additional inspections and fines may apply.
Q5: Are international reports like CB or CE accepted?
Yes, CB Test Reports and IECEE Certificates can often be converted or used as supporting documentation in the SABER process.
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