Saudi SABER certification for refrigerators
For exporting refrigerators to Saudi Arabia, you must first obtain Saudi Energy Efficiency Certification, and then apply for the Product Certificate of Conformity (PCoC) and Shipment Certificate of Conformy (SCoC) through the SABER platform.
According to the new 2025 regulations by SASO (Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization), all goods exported to Saudi Arabia must go through the SABER system. The traditional “letter of commitment” customs clearance method has been abolished.
Below is the core certification process for refrigerators exported to Saudi Arabia:
1. Certification Roadmap: Obtain the “Entry Ticket” First, Then the “Permit”
For large appliances like refrigerators, the certification logic is very clear: Pre-certification → Dual certificates on SABER.
- Phase 1: Obtain Saudi Energy Efficiency Certification (Entry Ticket)
This is the most critical prerequisite for exporting refrigerators. Saudi Arabia enforces mandatory energy efficiency standards for refrigerators. Without an energy efficiency certificate, the subsequent process cannot proceed.- Core standard: The current standard is SASO 2892:2025, which specifies Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS) and testing requirements.
- How to do it: The manufacturer must have the product tested by a SASO-accredited laboratory and obtain a valid energy efficiency test report and registration certificate.
- Phase 2: Apply for two certificates on the SABER platform (Permit)
After obtaining the energy efficiency certificate, proceed through the SABER online system (https://saber.sa/). The process consists of two steps:- Apply for PCoC (Product Certificate of Conformity): This is the “ID card” for the product. The importer registers on SABER, submits the application, and uploads your energy efficiency certificate, product test reports, technical documents, etc. Once approved, the certificate is issued and valid for one year. It can be reused for the same product model.
- Apply for SCoC (Shipment Certificate of Conformity): This is the “customs clearance document” for each shipment. For each shipment, using the valid PCoC certificate, upload the commercial invoice and packing list to apply for the SCoC certificate. This certificate is valid for a single shipment and is mandatory for customs clearance.
2. Technical Specifications (Directly related to customs clearance)
Ensure the product meets the following mandatory Saudi technical specifications. Any non-compliance may result in customs clearance failure:
- Voltage & Frequency: Must comply with 220V ±10%, 60Hz grid standards.
- Plug type: Must use an BS 1363 British 3-pin flat plug that complies with SASO 2203.
- Labels & Instructions: Product labels, nameplates, and user manuals must include Arabic and clearly indicate the country of origin.
- Religious & Cultural: Products and packaging must not display symbols that could be sensitive to religion, such as the Star of David or crosses.
3. Important Notes & Cost Analysis
- Timing & Costs: The certification timeline mainly includes two parts: pre-testing for energy efficiency (typically 2-4 weeks) and SABER certificate issuance (PCoC: about 3-5 working days, SCoC: about 1-2 working days). Official SABER platform fees are: PCoC: 575 SAR per model, SCoC: 455 SAR per shipment. The main cost lies in the product testing and certification stage, depending on the product model and laboratory quotes.
- Certificate Management: Pay attention to the validity periods of the two certificates. The PCoC is typically valid for one year and can be used multiple times. The SCoC is single-use, requiring a new application for each shipment.
Summary: The core certification process for exporting refrigerators to Saudi Arabia is “energy efficiency certification first, then SABER dual certificates.” It is recommended to start the certification process 2-3 months in advance to ensure all documents and technical parameters comply with the latest standards (especially SASO 2892:2025) to avoid customs clearance delays.
