SABER certification is a mandatory conformity assessment regime for products imported into Saudi Arabia. All goods destined for the Kingdom must obtain this certification to clear customs.
It is an online compliance management system launched in 2019 by the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO). The system aims to streamline product compliance evaluation and ensure that imported goods meet Saudi technical regulations and standards in terms of quality, safety, and environmental impact. SABER is fully integrated with the Saudi customs data system.
Core: Two Key Certificates
The SABER certification process revolves around obtaining the following two certificates:
- PC Certificate (Product Certificate of Conformity)
- Nature: A product conformity certificate – essentially a “product passport.”
- Validity: Typically one year. During this period, the same product can be shipped multiple times without re-application.
- Purpose: To certify that a specific product model complies with Saudi technical regulations. The applicant must be the local Saudi importer.
- SC Certificate (Shipment Certificate of Conformity)
- Nature: A certificate for a specific shipment – a “batch passport.”
- Validity: Valid for a single shipment only. A new SC must be applied for each and every shipment.
- Purpose: To confirm that the particular batch of goods matches the product described in the PC certificate. This is the primary document checked by Saudi Customs during clearance.
Critical Rules and Important Reminders
- Mandatory Effective Date: As of January 1, 2025, all shipments to Saudi Arabia must have the SC certificate applied for through the SABER system before the goods arrive at the port. Applications submitted after the vessel has arrived will be deemed invalid, resulting in clearance failure and potential additional costs such as fines and demurrage.
- Application Timing for SC: The SC application should be submitted after the goods are shipped but before they reach the Saudi port. The review process typically takes 1–2 working days.
- Product Scope: Virtually all commercial products exported to Saudi Arabia are subject to this regulation.
- Fees: Registration on the SABER platform is free of charge.
- Authorised Bodies: PC and SC certificates are reviewed and issued by third-party certification bodies (CBs) authorised by SASO.
In summary, SABER certification is a mandatory entry requirement for the Saudi market today. The core process involves obtaining a one‑year PC certificate for your product and, for each individual shipment, applying for a single‑use SC certificate before the goods arrive at the port.
Since the specific procedures and required documents can vary depending on the product category (e.g., electronics, construction materials, toys) and its risk level, if you can provide details about your product, I can offer more tailored guidance on the application process.
