How to Obtain a Saber Certificate ?
For companies importing products into Saudi Arabia, obtaining a Saber Certificate is a mandatory step to ensure compliance with the Kingdom’s standards. The Saber system simplifies the certification process, but it can be technically complex for first-time importers. So you may consider relying on an experienced consultant or agent to guide you through every stage, ensuring a fast, accurate, and fully compliant process
1. Understanding the Saber Certificate Requirement
A Saber Certificate (SASO Certificate of Conformity) verifies that your products meet Saudi technical regulations. These certificates are required for a wide range of goods, including electronics, appliances, construction materials, cosmetics, and more.
The journey of registering your product in the SABER system starts with evaluating it to confirm its eligibility for certification and identifying the relevant SASO technical regulations. This ensures your product is entered into the system correctly, avoiding any delays or rejections
2. Registration on the Saber Platform
To apply for a Saber Certificate, importers must have a registered account on the Saber platform. This includes:
Creating and configuring the Saber account for your company.
Create your account with the Saudi Customs system (FASAH).
Setting up user roles for internal staff or representatives.
This preparation allows your product registration and certificate application to proceed without technical obstacles.
3. Product Classification and Conformity Route Selection
Correct classification is key to obtaining a SABER Certificate. Start by reviewing your product’s technical specifications, labeling, and HS code to determine the correct category and conformity assessment procedure. Options may include
Document-based review for low-risk items.
Testing and inspection for higher-risk products.
By handling this classification carefully, you will ensure the certificate application is accurate and fully aligned with Saudi regulations
4. Coordination with Approved Conformity Assessment Bodies
The next step involves submitting your product for evaluation by a Notified Conformity Assessment Body (CAB) accredited by SASO. You’ll need to provide the following requirements:
Preparing all required documentation, including technical files and test reports.
Submitting applications to the CAB for evaluation.
Following up until the Saber Certificate is issued.
Choosing an agent or consultant may reduce the client’s involvement in technical paperwork while ensuring full compliance
5. Issuance of the Saber Certificate
Once approved, the Saber Certificate confirms your product meets the necessary technical standards. You should verify all certificate details, including:
Product name and model.
HS code.
Manufacturer and supplier information.
This verification prevents issues at the customs clearance stage and ensures seamless shipment processing.
6. Shipment Registration and SCoC
Each shipment requires a Shipment Certificate of Conformity (SCoC) linked to the main Saber Certificate by:
Uploading invoices and packing lists.
Linking the shipment to the approved Saber Certificate.
Coordinating with the CAB for final shipment approval.
This guarantees every consignment is compliant and can be cleared by Saudi Customs quickly.
You may register Shipment certificate by yourself on the SABER platform, or choose to work with a qualified consultant to ensure faster and error-free submission
7. Integration with Customs Clearance
Once the SABER Certificate and shipment approval are issued, your data is integrated with the Saudi Customs system (ZATCA). You can either manage the import declaration and documentation yourself or rely on a qualified consultant to ensure smooth and fast clearance at key ports like Jeddah, Dammam, and Riyadh
8. Why Work with a SABER Specialist
Working with a qualified consultant simplifies the entire certification process and keeps your shipments compliant and on schedule:
Accurate classification and HS code selection.
Seamless coordination with SABER, CABs, and Customs.
Faster approvals with fewer errors or re-submissions.
Expert guidance for both current and future imports.
Additional support includes:
Non-commercial import exemptions.
Certificate renewals and updates.
Diverse product portfolios — from electronics to cosmetics and industrial machinery.
9. Continuous Compliance Support
Certification doesn’t end once the SABER Certificate is issued. Ongoing compliance requires monitoring updates, technical circulars, and procedural changes. Quick management of any product modifications ensures that certification and customs clearance remain seamless and uninterrupted.
FAQs about Saber Certificate
Q1: What is a Saber Certificate and why is it required?
A: A Saber Certificate, also known as the SASO Certificate of Conformity (CoC), verifies that imported products comply with Saudi standards. It is mandatory for most goods entering Saudi Arabia to ensure safety, quality, and regulatory compliance.
Q2: Which products need a Saber Certificate?
A: Products regulated under Saudi technical standards require a Saber Certificate. This includes electronics, electrical appliances, construction materials, cosmetics, personal care items, and certain consumer goods. Expert evaluation helps determine if your product falls under these requirements.
Q3: How can the process of obtaining a Saber Certificate be simplified?
A: The process can be simplified by managing all steps through a qualified consultant — from account registration on the Saber platform to product classification, coordination with accredited Conformity Assessment Bodies, and final certificate issuance. This approach minimizes paperwork, reduces errors, and speeds up approvals.
Q4: Can a Saber Certificate be used for multiple shipments?
A: Yes. Once the product has an approved Saber Certificate, each shipment must be registered on the platform to receive a Shipment Certificate of Conformity (SCoC). Proper registration ensures smooth clearance for every consignment.
Q5: What happens if a shipment is not linked to a Saber Certificate?
A: Without a valid Saber Certificate or SCoC, Saudi Customs will reject the shipment, causing delays and additional costs. Ensuring proper registration and compliance prevents such issues.
Q6: How long does it take to get a Saber Certificate?
A: The timeline depends on the product type, required testing, and applicable technical regulation. Simple document-based products can be approved within days, while higher-risk products requiring inspection may take longer. Efficient document handling and coordination help shorten approval times.
Q7: How long is the Saber Certificate valid?
A: The Saber Product Certificate is typically valid for one year from the date of issuance. It must be renewed before expiry to ensure continued compliance and to avoid shipment delays.
Q8: What is the difference between a Product Certificate and a Shipment Certificate?
A: The Product Certificate (PCoC) confirms that the product meets Saudi standards and can be imported into the Kingdom. The Shipment Certificate (SCoC) is required for each specific shipment of that product and verifies that it matches the approved specifications.
Q9: Is every product imported into Saudi Arabia required to have a Saber Certificate?
A: Not all products need a Saber Certificate. Unregulated or low-risk items may only need basic documentation such as invoices or packing lists. However, regulated products under SASO technical standards must have valid Saber certification before clearance.
Q10: How does the Saber system integrate with Saudi Customs (ZATCA)?
A: Once the Saber Certificate and Shipment Certificate are approved, the data is automatically linked with the ZATCA customs system. This integration allows for faster import declaration, verification, and clearance at major Saudi ports and airports.
