If you are a manufacturer looking to export your products to Saudi Arabia, it is important to understand the SABER certification process. SABER stands for Saudi Arabia’s Electronic Conformity Assessment Program, and it is a mandatory program for all products imported to the Kingdom. In this blog post, we will go through the SABER certification process, including its requirements, benefits, and how to obtain it.
SABER Certification Requirements
SABER certification is required for all products imported to Saudi Arabia, including goods for personal use, commercial use, and industrial use. The certification process applies to both locally manufactured and imported products. The program aims to ensure that all products imported to the Kingdom comply with Saudi Arabia’s technical regulations and standards.
To obtain SABER certification, manufacturers must comply with the following requirements:
Registration: Manufacturers must register with the Saudi Standards, Metrology, and Quality Organization (SASO), which is responsible for the implementation of the SABER program. The registration process requires manufacturers to provide information about their products, including their brand name, model number, and technical specifications.
Testing: Products must be tested by a recognized testing laboratory to ensure compliance with Saudi Arabia’s technical regulations and standards. The testing process involves conducting physical and chemical tests on the products to verify their safety and quality.
Documentation: Manufacturers must provide documentation, including product manuals, technical specifications, and test reports, to support their application for SABER certification.
Labeling: Products must be labeled in Arabic and must include information such as the manufacturer’s name, country of origin, and product specifications.
SABER Certification Benefits
Obtaining SABER certification offers several benefits for manufacturers who want to export their products to Saudi Arabia. These benefits include:
Compliance: SABER certification ensures that products comply with Saudi Arabia’s technical regulations and standards, which helps manufacturers avoid product recalls or penalties for non-compliance.
Market Access: SABER certification is a mandatory requirement for all products imported to Saudi Arabia. Obtaining certification allows manufacturers to access the Saudi Arabian market, which is a valuable market for many industries.
Customer Confidence: SABER certification demonstrates that products meet Saudi Arabia’s safety and quality standards, which can increase customer confidence in the product and the manufacturer.
Brand Reputation: Obtaining SABER certification can enhance a manufacturer’s brand reputation by demonstrating their commitment to safety and quality.
SABER Certification Process
To obtain SABER certification, manufacturers must follow a step-by-step process:
Step 1: Register with SASO
Manufacturers must first register with SASO by providing information about their company, including their legal name, commercial registration number, and contact details. They must also provide information about their products, including their brand name, model number, and technical specifications.
Step 2: Obtain Test Reports
Manufacturers must obtain test reports from a recognized testing laboratory to demonstrate that their products comply with Saudi Arabia’s technical regulations and standards. The testing laboratory must be accredited by an internationally recognized accreditation body, such as the International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation (ILAC) or the Asia Pacific Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation (APLAC).
Step 3: Submit Application for Certification
Manufacturers must submit their application for SABER certification to SASO, along with the required documentation, including product manuals, technical specifications, and test reports. The application must be submitted through the SABER system, which is an online platform that allows manufacturers to apply for certification, track their application, and receive their certification.
Step 4: Obtain SABER Certificate
Once the application has been approved, manufacturers will receive their SABER certificate, which is valid for one year. This certificate must be renewed annually to ensure the safety of the product.
Overall, the SABER certification process can be complex and time-consuming, but it is essential for exporting products to Saudi Arabia. Exporters must ensure that they follow all the necessary procedures to avoid any delays or issues with their shipments.
