For power supply and adapter products exported to Saudi Arabia, SABER certification is mandatory and a customs clearance requirement. The entire certification process can be summarized as: “First obtain the core prerequisite certificates, then apply for the PC and SC certificates through the SABER platform.”
Certification Process and Key Steps
SABER certification follows a two‑stage model: Product Registration (PC Certificate) + Shipment Clearance (SC Certificate). For power adapters, the specific steps are:
- Obtain Core Prerequisite Certificates – This is the most critical step and a prerequisite for applying for the PC certificate.
- CB Test Report & IECEE Certification: The power adapter must be tested by an SASO‑recognized laboratory to obtain a CB Test Report, which is then used to apply for the IECEE Certificate. This is the “gateway” to the Saudi market.
- Energy Efficiency Rating (EER): If the product falls under the energy efficiency control scope, energy efficiency testing and registration are also required.
- Type‑C New Regulation: Saudi Arabia’s unified standard for Type‑C chargers became mandatory on 1 January 2025. Products with Type‑C ports must comply with the
SASO IEC 62680series standards.
- Apply for the PC Certificate (Product Conformity Certificate) – After obtaining the above certificates, this step is carried out by the Saudi local importer on the SABER platform.
- Registration & Application: The importer registers an account on the SABER platform, fills in product information, and uploads the required documents.
- Review & Issuance: Select a certification body, submit the documents for review, and pay the fee (approximately SAR 575). After approval, the platform issues the PC Certificate. This certificate is valid for one year and can be reused for the same model.
- Apply for the SC Certificate (Shipment Conformity Certificate) – This is required before each shipment.
- Submission: The importer submits the commercial invoice, packing list, and other shipping documents on the SABER platform, confirming that the PC certificate is still valid.
- Issuance: After payment (approximately SAR 455), the platform issues the SC Certificate. This certificate is valid only for that specific shipment and is a mandatory document for customs clearance.
Core Standards and Document Requirements
Below are the key technical and documentary requirements for power adapters exported to Saudi Arabia:
Core Standards
- Safety Standard: Primarily based on
SASO IEC 62368‑1. Older standards such asSASO IEC 60950may also be acceptable in some cases. - Energy Efficiency: If applicable, must comply with relevant
SASOenergy efficiency standards (e.g., EER). - Type‑C Port: Must meet
SASO IEC 62680‑1‑2andSASO IEC 62680‑1‑3standards.
Electrical and Hardware Requirements
- Voltage and Frequency: Saudi Arabia’s grid is 220V ± 10%, 60Hz – the product design must be compatible.
- Plug Standard: Must use a British three‑pin plug (BS 1363), which is also required by Saudi standard
SASO 2203.
Documents and Information
- Basic Documents: Application form, importer’s commercial registration (CR), product English name, model number, manufacturer name, product photos (including trademark).
- Technical Documents: Valid CB Test Report and IECEE Certificate.
- Manual and Label: The user manual must include Arabic. Product labels must include the product name and specifications in Arabic, as well as the country of origin.
Important Notes
- Assign Responsibility Correctly: Account registration on the SABER platform and the application for PC/SC certificates must be done by the Saudi local importer.
- Allow Sufficient Time: The entire certification process (from testing to obtaining the SC certificate) typically takes several weeks – plan ahead.
- Stay Updated on Regulations: Saudi technical regulations are subject to change. Before exporting, always check the 12‑digit HS code of your product on the official SABER website (https://saber.sa) to confirm the latest requirements.
In short, the certification path for power adapters to Saudi Arabia is: CB Report → IECEE Certificate → (Energy Efficiency EER) → PC Certificate on SABER → SC Certificate for each shipment.
