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SASO Certificate Of Conformity For Export to Saudi Arabia
- SASO Certificate-of-Conformity is mandatory for exports to Saudi Arabia, ensuring compliance with SASO technical regulations.
- SALEEM / SABER system is the online conformity platform linking exporters, certification bodies, and customs.
- Two stages: Product CoC (PCoC, valid one year) and Shipment CoC (SCoC, per consignment).
- SASO‑approved conformity assessment bodies issue certificates once product meets required standards.
- SASO Certificate enables smooth customs clearance and access to Saudi market under Vision 2030.
Introduction
When exporting any regulated product to Saudi Arabia, a SASO Certificate does not just represent a guideline, it is a legal requirement. There is no entry to the Kingdom without this certificate, which indicates that your product meets Saudi Arabia’s standards. All businesses that deal with regulated products experience problems with customs inspection delays or rejections after arriving in Saudi Arabia, due to missing or incorrect documentation. This is a guide to all things related to obtaining a SASO Certificate, everything from your registration on the SABER portal to your final approval. Once you are a member of the platform, our guide provides comprehensive step by step detail with clear examples, based on the companies which are exporters and partners operating in the Indian trade ecosystem.
What is the SASO Certificate?
The SASO Certificate of Conformity (CoC) is an official document issued to verify that products exported to Saudi Arabia, meets the technical regulations and safety requirements outlined by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This regulated certification, which is compulsory under the SALEEM program through the SABER platform, is managed by the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO) SASO certification is required to be completed online through the SABER platform.
The SABER platform is a single online system where importers and exporters must register products and undertake assessments for conformity. Without a certificate of conformity, products cannot legally enter the Saudi market. The regulation applies across many product classifications including electronics, cosmetics, building materials, automotive parts, etc. The regulatory environment protects consumers, promotes fair competition, and helps achieve the goal of the Saudi Vision 2030 by continuing to emphasize quality and safety of products.
Why You Absolutely Need a SASO Certificate?
“No Certificate, No Clearance” — That’s the Rule
Saudi customs is integrated with SABER and FASAH systems. Any regulated product arriving without a valid SASO Certificate will be rejected, fined, or returned.
Benefits Beyond Compliance
- Faster customs clearance
- Higher trust with importers
- Protection against counterfeit or low-quality products
- Access to government tenders and e-commerce markets in KSA
“Our LED lighting shipments were held at Jeddah port for 2 weeks. Once we corrected the HS code in SABER, Tabseer issued the PCoC quickly, and our clearance became automatic. Lesson learned!”
Types of SABER Certificates
Since January 1, 2019, it has been mandatory for importers to initiate certification requests through the SABER system prior to bringing goods into Saudi Arabia. The system ensures that both the product and the shipment meet regulatory standards. Two core certificates are issued through SABER:
1. Product Certificate of Conformity (PCoC)
This certificate validates that a specific product complies with the applicable technical regulations. It is product-specific and remains valid for one year. The certification process includes:
- The importer registers the product on SABER, including its technical specifications and HS code.
- A SASO-authorised Conformity Assessment Body (CAB) is chosen to conduct the evaluation.
- After payment of the required fees, the CAB reviews the importer’s submission within the SABER system.
- The CAB guides the exporter to submit supporting documentation, such as lab test results and product drawings.
- Once verified and compliant, the CAB uploads the approved documents and issues the PCoC electronically on SABER.
2. Shipment Certificate of Conformity (SCoC)
This is issued for every consignment and is directly linked to a valid PCoC. Without this, the shipment cannot pass through Saudi customs. Steps include:
- The importer initiates an SCoC request in SABER for each regulated product being shipped.
- The CAB checks the validity of the associated Product Certificate.
- After verifying the documentation and product consistency, the CAB confirms the application within SABER.
Upon fee payment by the importer, the SCoC is electronically generated and is valid only for that particular shipment.
Role of SASO, SALEEM, and SABER
SASO defines the technical regulations; SALEEM is the conformity assessment program enforcing these regulations; SABER is the digital interface where applications are managed.
Think of it like this:
- SASO = Lawmaker
- SALEEM = Police
- SABER = Passport Office
Exporters and importers log into SABER to initiate certificate applications, upload product documents, and select a conformity assessment body (CAB) for evaluation.
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Your SASO Certificate
Step 1: Register on SABER
The importer (or authorised exporter) must create an account on the SABER platform. Each product must be entered with:
- HS Code
- Product category (regulated or unregulated)
- Technical documents and specifications
Step 2: Select a Certification Body
From the SABER dashboard, select a SASO-accredited CAB such as:
- SGS
- QIMA
- HQTS
- Tabseer
Step 3: Product Evaluation
The CAB reviews the documents and may request:
- Lab test reports (ISO/IEC compliant)
- Factory audits
- Product photos or markings
- Quality system certifications (ISO 9001)
Step 4: Get the PCoC
Once approved, the CAB issues a Product Certificate valid for 1 year. It is electronically linked to your SABER profile.
Step 5: Apply for Shipment Certificate (SCoC)
Before each shipment, log in and request a Shipment CoC using the already-issued PCoC. Upload:
- Commercial invoice
- Packing list
- Shipping documents
Step 6: Customs Clearance
Saudi Customs validates your SCoC via the FASAH system. If all checks pass, clearance is granted instantly.
SASO Certification Documents
- Commercial Invoice – Product details, value, HS code
- Packing List – Weight, dimensions, packaging
- Bill of Lading / Airway Bill – Shipment proof
- Certificate of Origin – Issued by Chamber of Commerce
- Test Reports – From accredited labs (ISO/IEC 17025)
- Technical Data Sheet (TDS) – Product specs
- Safety Data Sheet (SDS) – For chemicals/hazardous items
- Product Photos – Including labels & packaging
- Declaration of Conformity (DoC) – Compliance statement
- Factory Audit Report – For high-risk/regulated products
SASO Certification Cost
Product Certificate of Conformity (PCoC)
– Includes application fee and technical review charges.Shipment Certificate of Conformity (SCoC)
– Charged per shipment, includes issuance and technical evaluation.Factory Audit Fee (if required)
– Per day charge for on-site inspection by an authorized body.Technical Study Fee
– For evaluating product compliance with applicable standards.Quality Mark Licensing (optional)
– Includes application fee, technical review, audit cost, and licensing charges for multiple years.
Validity of SASO Certificates
- Product Certificate of Conformity (PCoC)
- Validity: 1 year
- Renewable: Yes, annually
- Validity: 1 year
- Shipment Certificate of Conformity (SCoC)
- Validity: For one shipment only
- Expires: Once the shipment clears Saudi Customs
- Validity: For one shipment only
- SASO Quality Mark (if obtained)
- Validity: 3 years
- Validity: 3 years
Requires: Annual surveillance and possible re-audits
Typical Timeline for Certification
Process | Estimated Time |
Document submission | 1–3 working days |
Technical review & product evaluation | 3–7 working days |
Factory audit (if required) | 1–2 weeks (scheduling dependent) |
Issuance of Product Certificate (PCoC) | 5–10 working days |
Issuance of Shipment Certificate (SCoC) | 1–3 working days |
Conclusion
Although the SASO certification process may seem complicated, having the proper knowledge and certified partners make the process straightforward. Every step of your process, from your first SABER login to your last customs clearance, depends on simply having the right product and shipment certificates formalized in place. A valid SASO Certificate not only ensures your compliance but also ensures that you are competitive in one of the most lucrative Middle Eastern markets. Don’t wait until you run into delays at the port to realize you’re playing a dangerous game. Take action now and ensure your exports are completed efficiently.
Why Choose Diligence Certification for Your SASO Certificate?
Diligence Certification stands out as a trusted partner for Indian exporters navigating the SASO certification process. With deep domain expertise and hands-on experience in handling SABER registrations and CoC issuance, we ensure zero guesswork and faster approvals.
Here’s why clients rely on Diligence Certification:
- SASO-authorised partner with regional connections to fast-track documentation
- Dedicated account managers who speak your language and understand Indian compliance needs
- End-to-end support from document preparation to final SCoC upload
- Affordable packages tailored to SMEs, including lab testing partnerships
- Success record with 300+ exporters across electronics, FMCG, textiles, and automotive sectors
Let Diligence Certification be your compliance partner. We don’t just get you the certificate—we help you win the Saudi market.
Fast-Track Your Compliance with Diligence! Chat with us
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Frequently Asked Questions
The PCoC (Product Certificate of Conformity) is issued for every product once and will last for one year. The PCoC is proof that the product meets the relevant technical regulations.
No, SASO Certificate is only mandatory for regulated goods. However, the list of regulated items is long and includes most electronics, appliances, cosmetics, textiles, automobile parts, chemicals, etc.
Yes, of course, Indian exporters can start from India by selecting the SASO-approved Conformity Assessment Body (CAB) that is located or represented in India.
- How long does it take to get PCoC?
Time taken may vary depending on product category and supporting documents were ready. Generally, if the documents are ready, the average time taken is about 7 to 15 working days for the PCoC to be issued.
Documents that are required are the HS Code, comprehensive specification of the product, lab test results if applicable, packaging label, the factory or manufacturer related, product photographs, certifications such as ISO 9001 if available, etc.
Common mistakes include using incorrect/outdated HS Codes, submitting incomplete or poor-quality test reports, mismatched product descriptions, and selecting the incorrect product category.
To renew a PCoC, you have to submit all new product documentation in the SABER portal before the prior certificate expires. You must also make sure lab reports and declarations remain valid.
If your product is low-risk, or you have prior certifications, yes! Potentially the CAB will waive lab testing.
Your shipment will be immediately rejected clearance by Saudi Customs. The shipment may be delayed, and you could incur storage charges or be forced to return it.
Some of the standards in GCC overlap, but SASO Certificate is meant just for Saudi Arabia. The UAE, Kuwait, and Bahrain will have their respective regulatory systems.