SABER Certification for the Saudi Market

What is a SABER Certificate?

In this article, we explain what a SABER certificate is and what function it serves. In international import trade, there is sometimes the assumption that SABER is an authority that issues certificates for products intended for trade by the Saudi Arabian government. But does this representation correspond to the actual circumstances?

In import processes to Saudi Arabia, there is often confusion about the origin and significance of conformity certificates. Many importers mistakenly assume that SABER itself is the institution that issues these certificates.

Therefore, the question arises: What is a SABER certificate actually?

The responsibility for establishing technical regulations and standards lies with the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO). The so-called SABER certificate is, in fact, a proof of conformity, similar to an EAC certificate or an EAC declaration, which is processed through the electronic platform SABER. The issuance is carried out by accredited conformity assessment bodies in Saudi Arabia.

This certificate confirms that a product meets the technical requirements defined by SASO. The aim of the certification process is to ensure that imported goods comply with applicable safety, health, and quality standards, thereby ensuring consumer protection in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Application for the SABER Certificate

For the import of certain product groups into Saudi Arabia, proof of conformity with the applicable technical regulations is required. This proof is provided in the form of a SABER certificate, which ensures that the products meet Saudi Arabian safety and quality standards.

The issuance of the certificate is part of a government-regulated process aimed at strengthening consumer protection, ensuring a high level of quality, and creating fair market conditions.

A SABER certificate may be required for various products:

• Household appliances (refrigerators, washing machines, air conditioners, televisions)
• Lighting products, particularly LED lamps
• Cosmetics and personal care products
• Electrical and electronic devices
• Toys and children's items
• Food and beverages
• Spare parts for vehicles
• Textiles
• Building materials 

Process of SABER Certification

1. Registration on the SABER Platform: The importer or their representative registers on the official online platform SABER (https://saber.sa). All applications for conformity certificates are centrally managed here.

2. Entry of the Product in the SABER System: The products to be imported must be recorded in the system. Basic information such as product type, customs tariff number (HS code), and manufacturer data must be provided.

3. Selection of the Competent Conformity Assessment Body (CAB): The applicant selects a conformity assessment body approved by SASO, which is responsible for the evaluation and issuance of the certificate.

4. Submission of Required Documents: Depending on the product type, technical documents, safety evidence, test reports, and any existing international certificates, such as EAC, CE, or GOST, must be submitted.

5. Document Review and Possible Product Testing: The conformity assessment body reviews the submitted documents. Additional tests or audits may be required for certain products.

6. Issuance of the Product Conformity Certificate (Certificate of Conformity, PCoC): After successful examination of products, the conformity body issues the product certificate. The certificate is valid for one year.

7. Application for the Shipment Certificate (Shipment Certificate of Conformity, SCoC): A shipment certificate is required for each individual delivery, which is also applied for through SABER. A valid product certificate is a prerequisite.

Types of SABER Certifications

Contrary to a widespread misconception, SABER is not a certification body but an electronic platform operated by the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO). The aim of this platform is to digitize the conformity assessment for products and to make the import process more efficient.

SABER is part of the SALEEM program, which serves product safety, consumer protection, and the promotion of quality and fair trade. Through the platform, importers and manufacturers can apply for the necessary certificates to comply with Saudi Arabian regulations.

Within the SABER system, there are two main types of certifications:

Product Certificate of Conformity (PCoC)

This certificate is issued after a detailed assessment of a specific product. It confirms that the product complies with the technical regulations and standards set by SASO. It is generally valid for one year.

Shipment Certificate of Conformity (SCoC)

This certificate is required for each individual shipment of goods imported into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It pertains to already certified products (with a valid PCoC) and ensures that the respective delivery complies with the regulations.

Objective of the Two-Stage Certification System

By combining product and shipment certificates, the SABER system helps ensure compliance with legal requirements. It protects consumers, improves the quality of imported goods, and facilitates international trade with Saudi Arabia. 

• Administration: The SABER platform is operated by SASO.
• Affiliation: Part of the SALEEM program for product safety.
• Objective: Consumer protection, quality assurance, and promotion of a fair trading environment.
• Usage: By importers and local manufacturers to comply with legal requirements.

Saudi Quality Mark (SQM) and SABER Platform

In addition to applying for product and shipment conformity certificates (PCoC and SCoC) through the SABER platform, there is also the option to apply for and manage the Saudi Quality Mark (SQM) entirely through SABER.

The SQM is an official quality mark that certifies that a product significantly complies with Saudi Arabian standards and regulations. Certification is carried out by the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO) and includes a comprehensive examination of product quality as well as the manufacturer's production processes.

Upon successful completion of the SQM certification process, the product is automatically and free of charge registered in the SABER platform. This facilitates future import processes and serves as proof of particularly high conformity standards.

We have now highlighted the key aspects related to SABER certificates, including the distinction between PCoC and SCoC, as well as the integration of the Saudi Quality Mark (SQM) into the SABER platform. This structure not only serves to enhance efficiency in the import process but also strengthens quality and safety standards in the Saudi Arabian market.