Everything You Need to Know About Saber Certification and Registration

Ultimate Guide to Saber Certification: Simplify Market Entry to Saudi Arabia

The Saber Certification System, introduced by the Saudi Standards, Metrology, and Quality Organization (SASO), streamlines the process of ensuring that imported products meet Saudi regulations. By leveraging this platform, importers and exporters can obtain necessary certifications to clear customs efficiently. This guide offers unique insights into the Saber system, emphasizing practical steps, key requirements, and tips for success.

What is Saber Certification?

Saber certification is a mandatory requirement for all products entering the Saudi market. It is issued online through the Saber platform to confirm that products comply with Saudi standards and technical regulations. The certificates are essential for customs clearance and include:

1. Product Certificate of Conformity (PCoC): Ensures individual product compliance with technical standards.
2. Shipment Certificate of Conformity (SCoC): Verifies that specific shipments match registered product details.

Why Saber Certification is Crucial

Without Saber certification, products cannot enter the Saudi market. This requirement ensures:

• Compliance with safety, health, and environmental standards.
• Protection of consumers from substandard or counterfeit goods.
• Streamlined customs clearance processes.

Unique Steps for Saber Certification

1. Product Classification:

Before starting the certification process, classify your product based on the Harmonized System (HS) Code to determine whether it is:

• Regulated: Requires third-party assessment and Product Certificate.
• Non-Regulated: Only needs a Supplier Declaration of Conformity (SDOC).
• Exempted: No Saber registration required but must obtain an exemption certificate.

2. Technical Documentation Preparation:

For regulated products, gather essential documents such as:

• Test reports from ISO/IEC 17025-accredited labs.
• Manufacturing details, including factory audits for Type 3 assessments.
• Product labels in Arabic and English with clear usage instructions.

3. Platform Registration:

• Only Saudi entities with a Commercial Registration (CR) can create a Saber account.
• Use the account to register products, upload documents, and track application progress.

4. Engage Approved Certification Bodies:

• SASO authorizes specific third-party organizations like TUV, SGS, and Intertek to issue certifications.
• Collaborate with these bodies to assess compliance.

5. Submit and Monitor:

• Apply for PCoC for products and SCoC for shipments.
• Track applications and resolve discrepancies promptly to avoid delays.

Frequently Asked Questions About Saber Certification

What Makes Saber Different from SASO?

• SASO is the regulatory authority that sets standards and owns the Saber platform.
• Saber is the operational system used to manage certification processes.

Who Needs Saber Certification?

• Importers, exporters, and manufacturers supplying products to Saudi Arabia.
• Traders aiming to enter the Saudi market with compliant goods.

What Products Are Exempt from Saber?

Examples of exempted products include:

• Personal-use items (e.g., household goods, machinery for private projects).
• Non-commercial imports like building materials for private premises.

How Much Does Saber Certification Cost?

Costs vary based on product classification:

• Regulated Products: Fees for PCoC and SCoC, plus laboratory testing costs.
• Non-Regulated Products: Minimal fees for SDOC issuance.
• Exempted Products: Fees for exemption certification.

Key Tips for Success