Businesses exporting goods to Saudi Arabia must comply with strict product safety and quality regulations. One of the key requirements is obtaining a Saber Certificate—an official clearance that ensures your products meet the country’s technical and regulatory standards.
Without this certification, products risk being rejected at customs, causing financial loss, delays, and reputational damage. So, what exactly is the Saber system, and why is it critical for exporters?
What Is a Saber Certificate?
The Saber Certificate is a product registration and conformity document issued through Saudi Arabia's online Saber platform, managed by SASO (Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization). It’s part of the Kingdom’s “Saudi Product Safety Program” initiative, known as SALEEM.
Saber certification ensures that products entering Saudi markets are safe, high-quality, and compliant with Saudi technical regulations.
It applies to both regulated and non-regulated products and is mandatory for businesses shipping into the KSA market.
Why Is Saber Certification Required?
Saudi Arabia’s government introduced the Saber system to:
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Improve consumer protection
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Standardize quality and safety for imported goods
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Prevent copyright and non-compliant products from entering the market
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Streamline clearance procedures through digital processes
In short, it ensures only approved, verified products reach Saudi consumers.
Who Needs a Saber Certificate?
You must obtain Saber certification if you are:
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An exporter shipping regulated or non-regulated products to Saudi Arabia
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A local Saudi importer responsible for customs clearance
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A manufacturer or distributor of products destined for KSA
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A supplier of electronic, electrical, cosmetics, textiles, toys, or industrial goods
Each product category may require different technical documentation and compliance testing.
Types of Saber Certificates
There are two main types:
1. Product Certificate of Conformity (PCoC)
Issued once per product model, valid for one year. This confirms the product complies with the relevant SASO technical regulations.
2. Shipment Certificate of Conformity (SCoC)
Issued for each shipment, linking the certified product to the specific delivery batch. Without this, clearance at Saudi ports is not possible.
Both certificates are obtained online through the Saber system and often require testing, factory audits, and approved documentation from Notified Bodies.
Common Product Categories Requiring Saber Certification
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Electrical and electronic equipment
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Building materials
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Automotive parts
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Household appliances
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Toys and baby products
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Personal protective equipment
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Textiles and fashion items
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Cosmetics and perfumes
Even if your product isn’t regulated, you may still need a self-declaration certificate through Saber.
How to Obtain a Saber Certificate
The process involves:
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Registration on Saber Platform
The importer or their agent must register the product in the Saber portal. -
Choose a Notified Body
An authorized certification body will evaluate the product, perform testing, and issue a conformity certificate. -
Document Submission
You’ll need technical files, product test reports, lab certifications, and safety data. -
Issuance of PCoC
After successful review and approval, a Product Certificate of Conformity is issued. -
Apply for Shipment Certificate (SCoC)
Each shipment requires its own certificate for customs clearance.
Working with a consultant experienced in Saber compliance can streamline this process. Learn more at Saber Certificate Services.
Why Work with a Certification Expert?
The Saber process, while digital, can be complex—especially when managing multiple product categories or regulations.
A professional service provider helps by:
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Ensuring correct classification and documentation
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Coordinating with Notified Bodies
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Avoiding customs delays and non-compliance penalties
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Saving time through accurate application handling
They also keep up with frequent changes in Saudi regulatory frameworks.
Final Thoughts
For any business exporting goods to Saudi Arabia, Saber certification is not optional—it’s essential. Ensuring your products are approved before shipment not only guarantees smooth customs clearance but also boosts your credibility in one of the Middle East’s largest markets.
To simplify and fast-track your certification process, consult the experts at Qdot—a trusted partner in regulatory approvals, documentation, and ISO standards.