Comprehensive Guidance from The Saudi Gate for Global Manufacturers and Distributors
Saudi Arabia’s rapid economic growth, diversification efforts under Vision 2030, and increasing demand for consumer and industrial goods have positioned the Kingdom as a lucrative destination for global manufacturers and exporters. However, to tap into this dynamic market, companies must navigate a structured regulatory ecosystem, particularly in relation to product compliance and distribution protocols. At the center of these regulatory frameworks are the SABER Certification Program and Importer of Record (IOR) requirements—two critical components that businesses must understand and comply with to legally distribute regulated products in the Saudi market.
At The Saudi Gate, we guide companies through every stage of the compliance and importation process. From securing the correct SABER certifications to designating a trusted Importer of Record and managing customs clearance, our goal is to ensure smooth, lawful, and profitable market entry into Saudi Arabia.
What Is SABER?
SABER is an electronic platform launched by the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO) to manage and automate the product registration, certification, and clearance process for goods entering the Kingdom. It is part of the broader SALEEM program, a Saudi conformity assessment scheme that ensures imported and locally manufactured products meet the necessary safety, environmental, and quality standards.
SABER serves three primary functions:
- Product Registration and Certification: Every regulated product must be registered on SABER, along with evidence of conformity to SASO technical regulations.
- Shipment Certification: After product certification, each shipment must obtain a Shipment Certificate of Conformity (SCoC) to be cleared through Saudi customs.
- Tracking and Compliance: SABER enables real-time tracking and centralized management of all certificates, making it easier for regulators to monitor compliance.
Why Is SABER Certification Mandatory?
Saudi Arabia’s government has adopted a strict policy to ensure that only safe and compliant products enter its borders. This policy helps protect consumers, maintain environmental standards, and foster a competitive, transparent marketplace.
Failing to obtain SABER certification for regulated products can lead to:
- Customs clearance delays or rejections
- Heavy penalties and fines
- Product recalls
- Reputational damage
Categories of Products Under SABER
Products regulated by SABER include—but are not limited to—the following categories:
- Electrical and electronic appliances
- Building materials
- Automotive spare parts
- Chemicals
- Toys and childcare products
- Cosmetics and personal care items
- Medical and laboratory equipment
- Textiles and leather goods
- Food contact materials
Each product category may fall under a different SASO Technical Regulation, which outlines the specific requirements for conformity assessment.
Understanding the SABER Certification Process
- Registering on the SABER Platform
To begin, either the Saudi importer or an authorized representative must create an account on the SABER portal. Foreign manufacturers cannot register products themselves—this must be done by an entity with a Commercial Registration (CR) in Saudi Arabia. - Product Certificate of Conformity (PCoC)
Each product must obtain a PCoC, confirming that it meets all relevant SASO technical regulations. This is issued by an approved Conformity Assessment Body (CAB) after evaluating the product’s documentation and test reports. - Shipment Certificate of Conformity (SCoC)
After obtaining a PCoC, the importer must apply for an SCoC for each shipment of goods. This document certifies that the specific shipment contains only approved products and is required for customs clearance. - Customs Clearance and Market Access
With the SCoC and associated invoices, the goods are submitted to Saudi Customs. Clearance is only granted if all documentation is complete and the products match their registered profiles in SABER.
The Role of an Importer of Record (IOR) in Saudi Arabia
In Saudi Arabia, a foreign company cannot directly import goods unless it has a registered local entity. This is where the Importer of Record (IOR) becomes essential. The IOR is the party legally responsible for ensuring all goods meet the Kingdom’s import, customs, and product compliance regulations.
Key responsibilities of an IOR include:
- Holding a valid Saudi Commercial Registration (CR)
- Registering the products in SABER
- Liaising with SASO-approved Conformity Assessment Bodies
- Managing the customs clearance process
- Maintaining compliance records and audit trails
- Assuming liability for any regulatory breaches
Challenges Faced by Foreign Companies
Many foreign companies face operational and legal hurdles when attempting to enter the Saudi market:
- Lack of local presence: Without a local CR, foreign manufacturers cannot register products or act as an IOR.
- Limited regulatory understanding: The SABER system and SASO regulations are dynamic and subject to change, requiring constant monitoring and updates.
- Multiple product categories: Companies dealing in various product lines must manage several technical regulations and CABs.
- Time-consuming certification: Gathering required documentation, testing products, and securing approvals can delay market entry.
This is why many international companies turn to local service providers like The Saudi Gate to act as their trusted IOR and compliance partner.
How The Saudi Gate Can Help
1. Local Representation and IOR Services
The Saudi Gate can act as your Importer of Record, allowing your company to legally import and distribute goods in the Saudi market. We provide a full suite of importation services including CR support, customs brokerage, and compliance tracking.
2. SABER Product Registration and Certification
Our team handles end-to-end SABER registration—from identifying the applicable SASO Technical Regulations, coordinating with CABs, uploading documentation, and obtaining both the PCoC and SCoC.
3. Conformity Assessment Coordination
We manage the relationships and testing procedures required by SASO’s approved CABs. Whether it’s for electronic devices, chemicals, or food-contact materials, we streamline the testing and inspection process.
4. Regulatory Advisory and Market Readiness
The Saudi Gate provides expert advisory on product classification, labeling, packaging, and import licensing to ensure full compliance before products even leave the manufacturing floor.
5. Import Clearance and Logistics
From documentation to port handling and customs interaction, we manage the entire process to ensure fast, efficient, and compliant importation.
Common Documentation Required for SABER and Customs Clearance
When working with The Saudi Gate, we help you collect and submit:
- Test reports from ISO 17025-accredited laboratories
- Manufacturer declarations of conformity
- Product safety data sheets (especially for chemicals and electronics)
- Certificates of origin
- Commercial invoices
- Packing lists
- Bill of lading or airway bill
- Product images and user manuals in Arabic (as needed)
Our team ensures that your documentation aligns with SASO and GAC requirements for smooth processing.
Distribution Opportunities After Compliance
Once products are registered, certified, and cleared, your business can begin building a presence in one of the fastest-growing markets in the Middle East. Whether you plan to sell B2B, through online platforms, or via retail channels, The Saudi Gate can help you:
- Appoint qualified local distributors
- Set up warehousing and logistics
- Obtain commercial licenses for sales and marketing
- Secure VAT registration and tax guidance
Why Choose The Saudi Gate?
The Saudi Gate is not just a service provider—we are your local strategic partner. Here’s why businesses choose us:
✅ Decades of experience with Saudi import and regulatory systems
✅ A trusted network of SASO-approved Conformity Assessment Bodies
✅ Transparent, end-to-end IOR and logistics solutions
✅ Deep understanding of SABER, SALEEM, and customs frameworks
✅ Personalized support for each product category and market segment
✅ Multilingual team ready to support clients in real time
Start Your Saudi Market Entry with Confidence
Entering the Saudi Arabian market presents lucrative opportunities for global manufacturers and exporters—but also comes with stringent compliance requirements. The SABER certification system and Importer of Record obligations are two of the most critical components foreign companies must navigate.
By partnering with The Saudi Gate, you can streamline this process, eliminate regulatory risks, and gain a reliable foothold in the Kingdom’s ever-expanding economy.
Contact us today and let us help you unlock your growth in Saudi Arabia.