Saudi SABER Certification for Lighting Products

Exporting lighting products to Saudi Arabia requires mandatory SABER certification, an online clearance system introduced by the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO). Think of it as an electronic permit – all regulated products (including lighting) must register on this platform and obtain certificates before shipment, otherwise they will be blocked at Saudi customs. Importantly, SABER certification is not a single document but a combination of requirements, typically including SABER + core pre‑certifications (Energy Efficiency / IECEE) + additional tests. Major 2026 Updates: Three Key Changes Before starting, note these important updates effective in 2026: HS Code Mandatory UpdateThe SABER platform has fully adopted the new 12‑digit HS code synchronised with Saudi Customs (ZATCA). Always use the latest 12‑digit code when searching on SABER; old codes will cause certificate rejection. PC Certificate Validity AdjustmentsLighting products usually fall under “general categories”, but confirm with your certification body. Different product types have different validity periods – monitor your certificate expiry dates. Product Standards UpgradedEnergy efficiency standards for lighting (e.g., SASO 2902) have undergone important updates. Ensure your products comply with the latest versions. Which Lighting Products Need Certification? All lighting products under SASO’s regulated scope require certification. Common categories include: Light sources: LED bulbs, incandescent, halogen, fluorescent lamps, etc. Luminaires: Downlights, spotlights, panel lights, high bay lights, floodlights, street lights, LED strips, table lamps, floor lamps, wall lights, etc. Control gear & accessories: LED drivers, transformers, controllers, etc. Special note: Not all lighting products follow...

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...

Electric washing machines apply for Saudi water efficiency label certification

According to the latest Saudi standards, obtaining a water efficiency label certification for electric washing machines is primarily based on SASO 2885:2025 "Electric Washing Machines – Energy and Water Performance Requirements and Labeling". This is a mandatory certification for accessing the Saudi market, and all electric washing machines and washer-dryers must comply. Core Certification Standard: SASO 2885 The SASO 2885:2025 standard is the core document for the certification process. Key points include: Scope: The standard applies to electric washing machines and washer-dryers with a rated capacity not exceeding 25 kg, including built-in, multi-drum, and other configurations. Important Update: This standard is currently in a draft revision stage and has been notified to the WTO. It may come into effect in the future. Exporters are advised to closely monitor the final version and effective date published by the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO). Key Metric Requirements: According to the latest draft, the core metric requirements for different types of washing machines are shown in the table below. These requirements are very stringent and form the basis for certification and label rating. (The table from the original text is translated below) Product TypeEnergy Efficiency Index (EEI)Water Consumption Index (WCI)Washing Efficiency Index (Iw)Spin Drying Efficiency Index (WEI)Front-loading machines≤ 41≥ 2.5≥ 103%≤ 81Top-loading machines≤ 68≥ 3.0≥ 103%≤ 81 Complete Certification and Registration Process Exporting to Saudi Arabia requires not only testing and certification but also mandatory registration through the SABER system. The process generally consists of four...

Saudi SASO IECEE Certification for Laptops and Tablets

Laptops and tablets exported to Saudi Arabia must obtain the SASO IECEE Recognition Certificate (SIRC) . This certification is a mandatory clearance document for regulated electronic and electrical products under the Saudi Product Safety Program (SALEEM). The core prerequisite for obtaining this certificate is a valid CB Test Certificate and Report. Certification Overview The following core requirements must be carefully observed for smooth export: ItemSpecific RequirementMandatory ScopeLaptops, tablets, and their accessories (e.g., chargers) are all on the mandatory list.Mandatory NatureIt is a prerequisite for customs clearance; cargo without the certificate will be rejected by Saudi Customs.Certificate ValidityTypically 1 year, with options for 1 or 3 years available.Voltage & FrequencyThe CB test report must include Saudi national differences (220-240V / 60Hz).Plug StandardMust comply with Saudi standards: British BS 1363 3-pin plug or SASO 2203. Technical Standards & Latest Regulations To ensure compliance, products must meet the following core technical and regulatory requirements during the design phase: Safety Standards: Applicable safety standards are primarily IEC 60950-1 (old) or IEC 62368-1 (new). New Port Regulation (Mandatory) : Effective April 1, 2026, all laptops exported to Saudi Arabia must be equipped with a unified USB Type-C charging port. Testing must be performed according to standards SASO IEC 62680-1-2 and SASO IEC 62680-1-3. Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) : A RoHS report is required to meet Saudi regulations (phased enforcement starting July 2022). Communications Regulation (CITC) : Products with wireless capabilities (e.g., Wi-Fi, Bluetooth) must also meet the regulations of the Saudi Communications, Space & Technology Commission (CST) and may require additional CITC approval. Certification Process & Document Checklist...

Obtaining Saudi Water Efficiency Label Certification for Sanitary Ware Products

Saudi Water Efficiency Label Certification, officially known as RWC Certification (Rationalizing Water Consumption), is a mandatory requirement for sanitary ware exported to Saudi Arabia. All products covered by the regulations must pass water efficiency tests and bear the water efficiency label before they can be sold in the Saudi market. Due to frequent updates and strict enforcement of Saudi water conservation regulations in recent years, the scope of mandatory certification continues to expand, and it is now deeply integrated into the SABER system. Compliance requirements are quite rigorous. 1. Basic Certification Information ItemDetailsCertification NameRWC Certification / Water Efficiency LabelRegulatory AuthoritySaudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO)Governing RegulationTechnical Regulation for Water Rationalization ProductsImplementation DateMandatory from 1 January 2018ScopeAll imported and locally manufactured sanitary products within the regulated listOfficial Website/PlatformSABER Platform 2. Applicable Product Scope According to SASO, the following sanitary products are key targets for mandatory RWC certification (including but not limited to): Taps/Mixers: Kitchen, basin, bidet taps, shower mixers, etc. Showerheads: Shower nozzles. Water Closets (WCs): Single-flush/dual-flush western-style toilets. Squatting Pans. Urinals: Urinals with flushing systems. Others: Bathtubs, bidets, etc. 3. Compliance Pathway & Practical Process As of 2025, the certification system is deeply integrated with the SABER platform. The core logic is: you must first obtain RWC certification before applying for SABER certificates needed for customs clearance. The full compliance process consists of two major steps: Step 1: Obtain RWC Certification (Water Efficiency Label Permit) Sample preparation & testing: Send 2–3 samples to an...

Saudi IECEE Certification for Mobile Phone Devices

Mobile Phone Equipment – Saudi IECEE Certification Mobile phones exported to Saudi Arabia must obtain the SASO IECEE Recognition Certificate. This is a mandatory requirement for customs clearance and a prerequisite for applying for the SABER PCoC (Product Conformity Certificate). Below is the complete guide to applying for this certification. 1. Overview Issuing Body: Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO) Mandatory Scope: Mobile phones, laptops, tablets, and various electronic/electrical products such as chargers, batteries, smartwatches, etc. Key Prerequisite: Must be based on a valid IECEE CB Test Report and Certificate. Certificate Validity: Typically 1 year. 2. Certification Process Obtain CB Certificate & Report: Contact a qualified NCB (National Certification Body) to perform testing and obtain a valid CB certificate and report. The report is usually valid for 3 years. Prepare National Differences Testing: Perform tests for Saudi national differences, such as voltage/frequency of 220V / 60Hz and plug type must be BS1363 (British standard) or compliant with SASO 2203. Submit IECEE Application: Apply on the SASO digital services platform. Upload documents and pay fees. Upon approval, receive the SASO IECEE Recognition Certificate. Apply for SABER Certificates: Using the IECEE certificate, apply on the SABER platform to obtain the PCoC (Product Conformity Certificate) and SC (Shipment Certificate) required for customs clearance. 3. Required Documents The following key documents must be submitted when applying for the IECEE certificate on the SASO platform: Document CategorySpecific RequirementsApplicant / Manufacturer DocumentsManufacturer's industrial license, Saudi importer's Commercial Registration (CR), business licenses...