G-Mark (Gulf Conformity Mark) is a mandatory certification for low-voltage electrical equipment (LVE) entering the member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).
The certification aims to demonstrate compliance with the technical regulations established by the Gulf Standardization Organization (GSO), ensuring product safety and quality.
1. Applicable Countries and Product Scope
- Applicable countries: The certification is mandatory in all seven GCC member states, namely the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, as well as the Republic of Yemen, which also recognizes this regulation.
- Voltage range: The regulation mainly covers electrical equipment with an AC voltage between 50V and 1000V, or a DC voltage between 75V and 1500V.
- Specific products: Under the GSO technical regulation, this applies to 13 categories of household electrical appliances and equipment. Common products include:
- Electric fans, refrigerators, washing machines
- Microwave ovens, air conditioners, electric heating appliances
- Electric irons, toasters, kitchen mixers
- Electric hairdressing appliances, water heaters
- Plugs, sockets, adapters, battery chargers, etc.
2. Certification Process
The G-Mark certification generally involves the following key steps:
- Product testing: The manufacturer must have the product tested by a GSO‑designated Notified Body. The tests are carried out against the latest IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) standards adopted by the GSO. Test reports are typically valid for 3 years.
- Submission and review: The manufacturer submits the complete application package along with the test report to the Notified Body.
- Certificate issuance: Upon successful review, the Notified Body issues the G‑Mark certificate, i.e., the Gulf Type Examination Certificate. The certificate is generally valid for 3 years and must be renewed upon expiry.
3. Required Documentation
When applying for certification, the following documents are usually required:
- Product photographs and technical specifications
- Declaration of Conformity (DoC) in English and Arabic
- Risk assessment report
- Valid test report
- Factory ISO 9001 certificate, etc.
4. Marking Requirements
Once certified, the product must bear the GSO Conformity Tracking Symbol (GCTS). This symbol consists of two parts:
- The G‑Mark logo itself
- A QR code for traceability and verification of compliance
The mark must be affixed to the product permanently and in a way that is not easily removable.
In summary, the G‑Mark is a mandatory “passport” for low‑voltage electrical equipment to enter the seven Gulf countries, covering a defined product scope, a standardised testing procedure, and strict marking requirements.
