Expanding your business into Saudi Arabia is one of the most powerful strategic moves you can make in today’s global economy. As the Kingdom accelerates its industrial growth, international trade, and consumer market expansion under Vision 2030, regulatory compliance has become more structured, transparent, and digitally integrated than ever before.
At the center of Saudi Arabia’s product conformity and regulatory framework stands the SABER electronic platform—a mandatory system for product registration, certification, and compliance before goods can enter the Saudi market.
If you are an exporter, manufacturer, distributor, or brand owner looking to sell products in Saudi Arabia, obtaining a SABER Certificate, registering products, and securing the correct licensing approvals are non-negotiable steps.
That’s where The Saudi Gate becomes your strategic partner.
In this comprehensive guide, we explain:
- What SABER certification is
- Why it is mandatory
- Step-by-step product registration process
- Common challenges businesses face
- How to avoid costly delays
- How The Saudi Gate ensures fast, compliant, and smooth market entry
What Is the SABER Certificate in Saudi Arabia?
The SABER platform is an electronic conformity assessment system launched by the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO). It was introduced to regulate product safety, quality, and compliance before products are imported into Saudi Arabia.
SABER replaced the older paper-based conformity system and now requires:
- Product registration
- Conformity assessment
- Issuance of Product Certificate of Conformity (PCoC)
- Shipment Certificate of Conformity (SCoC)
Without SABER approval, your shipment will not clear Saudi customs.
Why SABER Certification Is Mandatory for Importing into Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia has strengthened its regulatory ecosystem to:
- Protect consumers
- Eliminate substandard products
- Support Vision 2030 industrial goals
- Increase product quality standards
- Enhance transparency in trade
The Kingdom’s customs authority, Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA), requires SABER certification for customs clearance of regulated products.
If your goods fall under SASO technical regulations—and most consumer and industrial goods do—you must register them in SABER before shipment.
Failure to comply can result in:
- Customs rejection
- Shipment delays
- Fines and penalties
- Product confiscation
- Market access bans
Products That Require SABER Registration
SABER applies to thousands of product categories, including but not limited to:
- Electrical appliances
- Construction materials
- Automotive parts
- Chemicals
- Cosmetics
- Toys
- Food contact materials
- Machinery
- Personal protective equipment (PPE)
- IT and telecommunication devices
If you are unsure whether your product is regulated, The Saudi Gate conducts full classification and regulatory mapping before submission.
Step-by-Step Process to Obtain a SABER Certificate
Understanding the process is critical. Here’s how it works:
1. Determine Product Classification
Products are classified into:
- Regulated products (require PCoC + SCoC)
- Non-regulated products (require only Self-Declaration)
Accurate HS code classification is essential to avoid rejection.
2. Register Importer on SABER Platform
Only a Saudi-based entity can register products on SABER. Foreign companies must work through:
- A Saudi importer
- A local distributor
- A licensed service partner like The Saudi Gate
3. Product Registration
Required documentation typically includes:
- Commercial invoice
- Product photos
- Test reports
- Technical file
- Risk assessment
- Declaration of conformity
- Manufacturer details
4. Issuance of Product Certificate of Conformity (PCoC)
PCoC is issued through an approved Conformity Assessment Body (CAB).
5. Shipment Certificate of Conformity (SCoC)
For every shipment, an SCoC must be issued prior to customs clearance.
Common Challenges Companies Face
While SABER is designed to simplify compliance, many businesses struggle with:
Incorrect HS Code Classification
One wrong code can delay shipments for weeks.
Missing Test Reports
Reports must match Saudi technical regulations.
Language Barriers
All documentation must align with local compliance expectations.
Delays in Conformity Assessment Bodies
Selecting the wrong CAB can slow approval.
Importer Misalignment
Poor coordination between foreign manufacturer and Saudi importer leads to registration errors.
This is why partnering with experienced regulatory consultants is critical.
Why Choose The Saudi Gate for SABER Certification & Product Registration?
The Saudi Gate is a specialized regulatory and business expansion consultancy dedicated to helping international companies successfully enter the Saudi market.
We provide complete end-to-end solutions including:
- HS code classification
- Regulatory mapping
- Technical file review
- Test report verification
- Conformity Assessment Body coordination
- SABER platform registration
- PCoC & SCoC issuance
- Customs clearance support
- Commercial licensing assistance
Our End-to-End Regulatory Services
1. SABER Certificate Management
We manage the entire process from documentation to approval.
2. Product Registration & Compliance
We ensure your product aligns with SASO technical regulations and other government requirements.
3. Commercial Registration (CR) Support
We assist companies in obtaining Saudi commercial registration when needed.
4. Importer & Local Representation Solutions
We provide structured support to foreign companies that require local regulatory representation.
5. Customs & Logistics Advisory
Our experts coordinate with ZATCA to ensure seamless customs clearance.
Ready to Get Your SABER Certificate?
Contact The Saudi Gate today for:
- Free regulatory assessment
- Product classification review
- Compliance roadmap
- Fast-track registration
Let us handle the regulatory process—so you can focus on growth.
The Saudi Gate
Your Gateway to Compliance, Licensing & Market Entry in Saudi Arabia