Saudi Arabia stands as one of the most promising destinations for industrial and chemical trade across the Middle East. With its strategic location, booming industrial base, and growing demand for specialized products, the Kingdom presents enormous potential for companies dealing with chemicals and other regulated items. However, entering this regulated market requires in-depth knowledge of local laws, standards, and importation procedures.
At The Saudi Gate, we specialize in helping global manufacturers, suppliers, and distributors navigate the intricate regulatory landscape surrounding the importation of chemicals and other controlled products into Saudi Arabia. From product classification and regulatory approvals to customs clearance and registration with relevant authorities, our end-to-end services ensure that your products are compliant, market-ready, and fully aligned with Saudi requirements.
Why Importation of Regulated Products in Saudi Arabia Requires Expert Guidance
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia enforces strict regulations for the importation of hazardous chemicals, industrial compounds, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, pesticides, detergents, and other controlled substances. These rules are managed by various national authorities, including:
- SFDA (Saudi Food and Drug Authority) – for pharmaceuticals, food-contact chemicals, cosmetics, and personal care products.
- SASO (Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization) – for product quality and conformity under the SABER platform.
- HCIS (High Commission for Industrial Security) – for industrial and hazardous chemical approvals.
- MISA (Ministry of Investment) – for foreign investment licenses and regulated activity approvals.
- Ministry of Commerce (MOC) – for company licensing and regulated product categories.
- Customs Authority (ZATCA) – for tariff classification, valuation, and clearance procedures.
Without expert handling and proper documentation, your importation process could face delays, fines, or even rejections at Saudi borders. That’s where The Saudi Gate comes in—offering a complete suite of services to ensure your chemical or regulated products reach the Saudi market smoothly and compliantly.
Our Services: Your Strategic Entry to the Saudi Regulated Products Market
1. Product Classification and Regulatory Identification
Before importation can begin, it is crucial to determine whether your product falls under a regulated or non-regulated category. The Saudi Gate provides expert classification services, evaluating each product’s composition, usage, and HS code to:
- Determine applicable authorities (SFDA, SASO, HCIS, etc.)
- Identify mandatory approvals and licenses
- Recommend the appropriate regulatory pathway
We ensure that your product classification aligns with Saudi Customs codes, international standards, and local requirements, minimizing compliance risks.
2. SABER Platform Registration and Conformity Assessment
All regulated products entering Saudi Arabia must be registered and cleared via the SABER platform. This includes obtaining:
- Product Certificate of Conformity (PCoC)
- Shipment Certificate of Conformity (SCoC)
We handle the entire SABER process for your products, including:
- Liaising with accredited Certification Bodies (CBs)
- Managing documentation, testing, and verification
- Monitoring product updates and SABER renewals
Whether you’re importing industrial chemicals or consumer-facing goods, we help you gain SABER approvals efficiently and on time.
3. SFDA Registration for Food-Contact Materials, Cosmetics, and Drugs
For chemicals and products falling under the jurisdiction of the SFDA, The Saudi Gate provides complete regulatory support for:
- eCosma registration for cosmetics and personal care items
- DRUG TRACK registration for pharmaceutical imports
- FCM (Food Contact Materials) classification and registration
We ensure your products comply with SFDA safety, labeling, and efficacy standards. Our experts stay updated on recent regulatory changes and guide your team through all technical documentation and submission requirements.
4. HCIS Approval and Chemical Import Permit Guidance
Chemicals used in industrial sectors—especially those classified as hazardous—must be approved by the High Commission for Industrial Security (HCIS). The process includes:
- Preparing safety data sheets (SDS) in Arabic
- Hazard classification (GHS standards)
- Site security assessment for end-use
- Import permit application
The Saudi Gate coordinates directly with HCIS to ensure that all technical and security documentation is completed correctly. We help you obtain and maintain your chemical import licenses without delays or compliance risks.
5. Labeling Requirements and Documentation Review
Saudi Arabia has strict rules for product labeling and packaging, especially for chemicals and regulated substances. Label requirements may include:
- Arabic labeling for ingredients and usage instructions
- Hazard and precautionary statements (GHS)
- Manufacturer/importer details and country of origin
- Shelf life and batch number
We provide full guidance on labeling in accordance with SFDA, SASO, and international GHS guidelines, reviewing your artwork, packaging, and technical documentation before your products are shipped.
6. Importer of Record (IOR) Services
For foreign companies without a physical presence in Saudi Arabia, The Saudi Gate offers Importer of Record services. This allows you to legally:
- Import and register regulated products
- Gain access to SABER, SFDA, and HCIS platforms
- Fulfill customs and tax obligations
- Store and distribute products in the Kingdom
Our IOR service ensures that your products comply with all local regulations while simplifying your market entry strategy.
7. Post-Importation Compliance and Ongoing Support
Regulatory compliance in Saudi Arabia doesn’t stop at customs clearance. The Saudi Gate offers continuous support to ensure that:
- Your registrations are renewed on time
- Regulatory changes are implemented swiftly
- Products continue to meet labeling and quality standards
- Your licenses remain valid and active
We also assist with recalls, updates, product variations, and local audits where required.
Why Choose The Saudi Gate?
At The Saudi Gate, we combine unmatched local expertise with international compliance standards. Our deep understanding of Saudi regulations across all major sectors allows us to deliver tailored, reliable, and efficient services to our global clients. We are your trusted partner in:
- End-to-End Compliance Management – from classification to licensing and post-importation support
- Dedicated Regulatory Experts – specializing in SFDA, SASO, HCIS, and Customs procedures
- Client-Centric Service Model – with clear communication, transparency, and responsiveness
- Fast-Track Market Entry – reducing time-to-market for regulated and high-risk products
Who Should Work with The Saudi Gate?
Our services are essential for:
- Chemical manufacturers and exporters
- Pharmaceutical and biotech companies
- Cosmetic brands and personal care producers
- Industrial suppliers and raw material traders
- FMCG and consumer goods distributors
- Trading houses entering the Saudi market
Whether you’re looking to expand into Saudi Arabia for the first time or improve your current compliance approach, The Saudi Gate provides all the tools and support you need for success.
Let Us Help You Enter the Saudi Market with Confidence
Navigating the complexities of importing chemicals and regulated products into Saudi Arabia requires more than just paperwork—it demands strategic insight, technical know-how, and local expertise.
Contact us today and let us help you simplify your regulatory journey, speed up your product registrations, and ensure smooth, compliant importation into the Saudi market.