Saudi Arabia SASO certification

I. Scope of Certification

• Electronics and electrical appliances (e.g., home appliances, lighting, wires and cables);

• Toys and children's products;

• Building materials (e.g., ceramic tiles, coatings, steel);

• Chemical products (e.g., cleaning agents, cosmetics);

• Textiles, apparel, and footwear;

• Automobiles and spare parts;

• Food contact materials, etc.

II. Certification Core: SABER Electronic Platform

1. Product Certificate (PC)

• A long-term certification for specific product models, proving that the product conforms to Saudi standards;

• Valid for typically 1–3 years (depending on product category), and must be applied for based on test reports from accredited laboratories.

2. Shipment Certificate (SC)

• A one-time certificate that must be applied for before customs clearance of each imported shipment;

• Based on an approved PC, documents such as the packing list and invoice are submitted, and the certificate is issued upon approval.

III. Certification Process (Using the SABER Platform as an Example)

1. Submit Application: Register an account through the SABER system, fill in product information (model, specifications, trademark, etc.), and link it to the local Saudi importer's information.

2. Product Testing: Provide test reports issued by SASO-accredited laboratories (such as SGS, Intertek, TÜV, etc.). The reports must comply with Saudi standards (e.g., SASO standards, IEC/ISO equivalent standards).

3. Document Review: SASO or its authorized body reviews the test reports, technical documents (such as user manuals, circuit diagrams), trademark registration certificates, etc.

4. Issuance of PC: After approval, the Product Certificate (PC) is obtained.

5. Apply for SC: Before each shipment is imported, submit the PC number, packing list, invoice, etc. through the SABER system. After approval, the Shipment Certificate (SC) is obtained for customs clearance.

IV. Key Requirements

• Standards Compliance: Products must comply with Saudi national standards (SASO Standards) or equivalent international standards (such as IEC, ISO), but attention must be paid to Saudi-specific requirements (e.g., voltage 220V, frequency 60Hz, BS 1363 13A plug).

• Test Reports: Must be issued by SASO-accredited laboratories. Reports must include full-scope product testing and be within the validity period (typically 1–2 years).

• Importer Association: All applications must be associated with a locally registered Saudi importer (responsible for customs clearance and subsequent liabilities).

V. Important Notes

• Goods without a SC will be detained, fined, or returned by Saudi Customs. Therefore, the certification process must be completed in advance.

• Certain high-risk products (such as toys, electrical appliances) may require additional factory inspections (to verify production conformity).

• Certification timeline: PC typically takes 1–2 weeks (with complete documentation), and SC takes 1–3 working days.