For wire and cable products exported to Saudi Arabia, it is mandatory to obtain both a PC and an SC certificate through the SABER platform. This is a compulsory market access requirement.
Overview of Certification
SABER is the online certification system introduced by the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO). All regulated products, including wires and cables, must be registered through this system.
The certification process consists of two core steps:
- PC Certificate (Product Certificate): A product conformity certificate that verifies that a specific model complies with Saudi technical regulations.
- SC Certificate (Shipment Certificate): A batch shipment certificate issued for each consignment of goods, which is required for customs clearance.
It is important to note that wires and cables (typically under HS code 8544 series) are subject to mandatory certification. Without valid certificates, shipments face the risk of being returned or destroyed by Saudi Customs.
Core Standards and Additional Requirements
Wire and cable products must comply with a series of SASO technical standards, the most important of which include:
- SASO IEC 60502: For extruded insulated power cables with rated voltages from 1 kV to 30 kV.
- SASO IEC 60332: For tests on cables under fire conditions (flame propagation).
- SASO IEC 60227: For polyvinyl chloride (PVC) insulated cables with rated voltages up to and including 450/750 V.
- GSO 2203: For low‑voltage cables with rated voltages up to 1000 V AC or 1500 V DC.
Depending on the specific HS code of the product, the following pre‑requisite certifications may also be required:
- CB Certification: An international certification based on IEC standards.
- IECEE Certification: Issued by Saudi authorities after reviewing the CB test report; this is a prerequisite for some electrical products when applying for the SABER PC certificate.
In addition, the following extra requirements must be observed:
- Flame Retardancy and Safety: Flame retardance is a key concern for cables in Saudi Arabia. Cables used in buildings often require low smoke zero halogen (LSZH) or specific flame‑retardant ratings.
- Labelling Requirements: Product labels must be in Arabic or bilingual (Arabic and English) and include information such as model, specifications, voltage, manufacturer, country of origin, etc.
- Electrical Parameters: Saudi Arabia’s mains voltages are 127V/60Hz and 220V/60Hz; ensure that the cable’s rated voltage is compatible.
Application Process
The entire process mainly involves two steps: obtaining the PC certificate and then the SC certificate.
1. Obtaining the PC Certificate (Product Conformity Certificate)
- Register an account on the SABER portal (
https://saber.sa) as a company. - Prepare and submit documents: Provide technical files, including:
- Product specifications
- Valid IEC standard test reports issued by a SASO‑accredited laboratory
- Material certificates
- (If applicable) CB certificate and IECEE certificate
- Payment and review: Pay the official application fee; the application is then reviewed by a certification body designated by SASO.
- Receive the certificate: After approval, the PC certificate is issued. The PC certificate is generally valid for 1 year (some sources mention 3 years; always verify the latest official regulation).
2. Obtaining the SC Certificate (Batch Shipment Certificate)
- Link to the PC: On the SABER platform, select the valid PC certificate for the product.
- Fill in shipment details: Enter the quantity shipped, packaging method, and upload commercial documents such as the invoice and packing list.
- Payment and review: Pay the SC application fee. The system will verify the validity of the PC certificate and the shipment information.
- Receive the certificate: Upon approval, the SC certificate is issued online. The SC certificate is valid only for that specific shipment.
Important Notes and Recommendations
- Plan ahead: The PC certificate application typically takes 2‑4 weeks, so start early. The SC certificate is faster, usually 1‑3 days.
- Ensure complete documentation: Make sure your test reports cover all exported models. Missing any specification can cause customs clearance issues.
- Stay updated on standard changes: Saudi technical regulations are updated periodically. For example, new requirements for fire resistance and electrical conductivity came into effect in 2025.
- Consider professional assistance: Working with an experienced certification agency can help mitigate risks.
- Understand the certification chain: The path for wires and cables may be “CB → IECEE → SABER (PC + SC)”. Confirm the required chain based on your product’s HS code.
In short, the key to SABER certification for wire and cable exports to Saudi Arabia is “first get the PC, then apply for the SC”. The PC proves that your product is compliant, while the SC certifies that your specific shipment is acceptable. Having a valid IEC test report prepared in advance is the critical factor for a smooth certification process.
