For air conditioning products exported to Saudi Arabia, SABER certification is mandatory. SABER is an online mandatory customs clearance system operated by the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO).
Core Certification: Two Key Certificates
The SABER system requires two types of certificates for each product:
| Certificate Type | Full Name | Purpose | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| PC Certificate | Product Certificate of Conformity | “Entry permit” for the Saudi market | Issued per product model, valid for one year (renewable), can be used for multiple shipments |
| SC Certificate | Shipment Certificate of Conformity | “Customs clearance permit” for each batch | Required for each individual shipment; must be obtained before the goods arrive at the Saudi port |
Important Note: All applications on the SABER platform must be submitted by a Saudi local company (the importer). Exporters cannot apply directly.
Mandatory Requirements for Air Conditioning Products
As air conditioners are high‑energy‑consumption appliances, additional prerequisites beyond the SABER platform are usually required:
- Energy Efficiency Registration & Labeling – Testing must be performed at a SASO‑approved laboratory, followed by registration and obtaining the energy efficiency label.
- G‑Mark Certification – Household air conditioners must obtain the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) conformity mark, i.e., the G‑Mark.
- RoHS Testing – Products must comply with Saudi Arabia’s restrictions on hazardous substances.
Key Standards and Important Updates (2026)
Energy efficiency is a critical focus for AC certification, and significant updates came into force in 2026. All exporters must pay close attention.
- Energy Efficiency Standards by Capacity:
- Small ACs (rated cooling capacity ≤ 65,000 Btu/h): apply standard SASO 2663.
- Large / Commercial ACs: apply standard SASO 2874.
- 2026 Standard Update and Enforcement Timeline:
| Key Date | Action / Event |
|---|---|
| August 31, 2026 | Last application deadline for old energy efficiency certificates and SABER certificates issued under the old standards. |
| November 29, 2026 | All energy efficiency certificates issued under the old standards will become invalid. |
| December 1, 2026 | Saudi Customs and manufacturers will fully enforce the new standards (SASO 2663:2025 and SASO 2874:2025). |
Implication: To ensure continuous compliance, you must complete product upgrades, testing, and obtain new energy efficiency certificates and SABER PC certificates under the new standards before December 1, 2026.
Complete Certification Process
- Obtain Pre‑requisite Approvals – Complete testing for product safety (IEC 60335 series), EMC (CISPR 14 series, etc.), energy efficiency (SASO 2663/2874), and RoHS (IEC 62321 series). Obtain G‑Mark and energy efficiency registration.
- Apply for PC Certificate – The Saudi importer submits required documents on the SABER platform. Once reviewed, the PC certificate is issued.
- Mass Production – After receiving the PC certificate, arrange batch production.
- Apply for SC Certificate – Before each shipment, the importer submits the commercial invoice, packing list, etc. on SABER to obtain the SC certificate.
- Loading and Shipping – Clear customs using the SC certificate.
Required Documentation for Application
Typically, the following documents are needed:
- Application form
- Product test reports (including safety, EMC, energy efficiency, RoHS, etc.)
- Product pictures and label images
- Commercial invoice and packing list
- Factory quality management certificate (e.g., ISO 9001)
Other Critical Points
- Voltage & Plug: Saudi grid is 220V / 60Hz. The plug must be the British standard BS 1363 3‑pin flat plug (compliant with SASO 2203).
- Labels & Instructions: All labels, nameplates, and user manuals must include Arabic and clearly state the country of origin (e.g., “Made in China”).
- HS Code: Effective January 1, 2026, the SABER platform uses the new Harmonized System (HS) codes aligned with Saudi Customs. Applications using old codes will be rejected.
In summary, to export air conditioners to Saudi Arabia, the local importer must lead the process, apply for PC and SC certificates on the SABER platform, and ensure the product, especially its energy efficiency, meets the latest SASO standards. Given that 2026 is a critical year for standard changes, it is highly recommended to communicate early with your Saudi importer and professional certification bodies to prepare thoroughly.
