Introduction
As Saudi Arabia emerges as a global trade hub, the government has prioritized transparency, safety, and compliance in its import and manufacturing sectors. One of the key developments supporting this vision is the creation of Saber Saudi Arabia, a digital platform developed by SASO (Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization). Saber functions as the Kingdom’s official portal for product registration, conformity assessment, and shipment certification. Its primary aim is to ensure that all products meet Saudi Arabia’s stringent technical regulations before reaching the market.
This article explores the structure, functions, and significance of Saber Saudi Arabia in regulating product entry and ensuring compliance with national standards.
The Purpose of Saber Saudi Arabia
Saber is part of a broader initiative by the Saudi government to streamline and digitize its trade and quality control systems. Launched as a replacement for the outdated manual Certificate of Conformity (CoC) system, Saber introduces automation and transparency into a previously complex regulatory environment.
The platform helps:
-
Verify that products comply with technical regulations and safety standards.
-
Prevent the entry of counterfeit or substandard goods.
-
Facilitate faster customs clearance for compliant shipments.
-
Digitize and centralize the product certification process.
Saber is now mandatory for the importation and local manufacturing of regulated products in Saudi Arabia.
The Structure of Saber Saudi Arabia
The platform is designed to connect multiple stakeholders, including importers, manufacturers, certification bodies, and customs officials. The system is composed of several components, each serving a unique purpose in the certification and clearance workflow.
1. Product Registration Module
This section allows users (typically importers or manufacturers) to create product profiles by entering basic product information like:
-
Product name and description
-
HS code
-
Manufacturer details
-
Technical documents (manuals, test reports)
Once submitted, products are classified either as regulated (subject to conformity requirements) or non-regulated.
2. Conformity Assessment System
Products that fall under regulated categories must comply with specific technical regulations. The platform facilitates engagement with SASO-approved Conformity Assessment Bodies (CABs), who:
-
Review documentation
-
Verify testing results
-
Issue Product Certificates of Conformity (PCoCs)
The PCoC is valid for 12 months and is product-specific.
3. Shipment Certification Workflow
After a product has a valid PCoC, each individual shipment requires a Shipment Certificate of Conformity (SCoC). This certificate ensures the product being imported matches the one previously certified.
The SCoC process involves:
-
Creating a shipment request
-
Uploading invoices and packing lists
-
Linking to the previously issued PCoC
-
Receiving clearance to ship
4. Integration with Saudi Customs
The Saber platform is linked with FASAH, Saudi Arabia’s national customs portal. Once the SCoC is approved, it is automatically visible to customs officers for clearance decisions. This significantly reduces customs processing time and the risk of documentation errors.
The Regulatory Bodies Behind Saber
While Saber is the operational platform, it is regulated and managed by SASO, which defines:
-
The technical regulations applicable to different product categories
-
Approved testing methods and standards
-
Authorized CABs in Saudi Arabia and abroad
SASO works in collaboration with other government entities like the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA), the Ministry of Commerce, and the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources.
Who Is Required to Use Saber?
The platform is mandatory for a wide range of stakeholders:
-
Importers of commercial goods into Saudi Arabia
-
Local manufacturers who produce regulated goods for domestic sale
-
Agents or distributors representing foreign brands
-
Online retailers importing regulated items
Even small businesses importing consumer goods like electronics, toys, cosmetics, or appliances must ensure proper product and shipment certification through Saber.
Common Product Categories Regulated in Saber
Some of the most commonly regulated products include:
-
Electrical and electronic devices
-
Children’s toys and baby products
-
Chemicals and cosmetics
-
Construction materials
-
Automotive parts
-
Medical devices
For each category, specific technical regulations and safety standards are published by SASO.
How Saber Saudi Arabia Supports Trade Efficiency
The implementation of Saber has made several impactful changes to how businesses operate in the Kingdom:
-
Faster Clearance: Automated systems reduce delays at ports and borders.
-
Reduced Paperwork: All processes are digital and centralized.
-
Greater Transparency: All certification steps can be tracked online.
-
Improved Consumer Safety: Only compliant, high-quality products reach the market.
Through these features, Saber Saudi Arabia enhances both business operations and consumer protection, contributing to a healthier trade ecosystem.
Saber vs. the Old CoC System
Under the old system, importers had to manually obtain Certificates of Conformity (CoCs) through various agents, often resulting in inconsistent documentation and long approval times.
Saber offers:
-
Centralized product and shipment control
-
Real-time communication with CABs
-
Elimination of intermediaries
-
Transparent pricing and fees for certificates
This transition represents a significant upgrade in efficiency, accuracy, and reliability.
Final Thoughts
Saber Saudi Arabia is not just a regulatory tool—it’s a strategic component of the Kingdom’s vision for digital transformation and safe trade. By understanding its structure and function, businesses can avoid costly delays, ensure regulatory compliance, and streamline their operations.
For importers and manufacturers looking to expand into the Saudi market, mastering the Saber system is no longer optional—it is essential.