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SASO/SABER Certification

What is SASO/SABER Certification?

The Saudi Standards, Metrology, and Quality Organization (SASO) is the national standards body of Saudi Arabia. It is responsible for developing, promoting, and maintaining national standards to ensure the quality and safety of products in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. SASO’s main goal is to enhance the competitiveness of Saudi products and protect the interests of consumers.

SASO/SABER (Saudi Product Safety Program) is a certification and conformity assessment system introduced by SASO to regulate and control the quality of products entering the Saudi market. The SABER system aims to streamline and automate the process of obtaining product conformity certificates, ensuring that products meet the required Saudi standards before they are allowed to be sold in the country.

Key points about SASO/SABER certification include:

  1. Mandatory Certification: Certain product categories are subject to mandatory certification before they can be imported, distributed, or sold in Saudi Arabia. This includes electrical and electronic products, machinery, toys, cosmetics, and other items.

  2. Conformity Assessment: The SABER system involves a conformity assessment process where products are tested and evaluated to ensure they meet the specified Saudi standards and regulations.

  3. Online Platform: The certification process is facilitated through an online platform, allowing manufacturers and exporters to apply for and obtain product certificates electronically. This platform helps in reducing paperwork and expediting the certification process.

  4. Product Registration: The SABER system requires manufacturers and exporters to register their products and obtain a Certificate of Conformity (CoC) before shipping them to Saudi Arabia.

  5. Traceability: The system enhances traceability by providing a unique identification number for each product, allowing authorities to track and verify the compliance status of products in the market.

Compliance with SASO/SABER certification is crucial for businesses looking to export their products to Saudi Arabia, as non-compliance may result in delays or restrictions on product entry into the Saudi market. Manufacturers and exporters need to be familiar with SASO standards and follow the certification process outlined by the SABER system.

 
 

Benefits of SASO/SABER Certification

Obtaining SASO/SABER certification for products destined for the Saudi Arabian market offers several benefits:

Market Access

SASO/SABER certification is often a mandatory requirement for certain product categories. Having the certification allows manufacturers and exporters to access the Saudi market and ensures compliance with local regulations.

Legal Compliance

The certification ensures that products comply with Saudi standards and regulations, reducing the risk of legal issues and market entry barriers. It helps businesses avoid fines or penalties for non-compliance.

Consumer Confidence

SASO/SABER certification signifies that a product meets the required safety and quality standards. This can enhance consumer confidence in the product, leading to increased sales and brand reputation.

Streamlined Processes

The SABER system streamlines the certification process by providing an online platform for applications. This reduces paperwork, simplifies the submission process, and accelerates the issuance of certificates, saving time and resources for businesses.

Traceability

The unique identification number assigned to each certified product facilitates traceability. Authorities can track the compliance status of products in the market, ensuring that non-compliant or unsafe products are quickly identified and addressed.

Competitive Advantage

Having SASO/SABER certification can give businesses a competitive edge in the Saudi market. It demonstrates a commitment to quality and compliance, distinguishing certified products from non-certified ones.

Who can get SASO/SABER Certification?

SASO/SABER Certification is typically required for businesses and manufacturers that intend to export certain products to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The certification process is relevant to a wide range of products, particularly those falling within specific categories outlined by Saudi Arabian authorities. These categories often include, but are not limited to:

Electrical and Electronic Products

Mechanical and Industrial Products

Chemical and Petrochemical Products

Toys and Children's Products

Automotive and Transportation Products

Building Materials

Cosmetics and Personal Care Products

Food and Agricultural Products

Validity of SASO/SABER Certification

The validity period can vary based on the type of product and the relevant Saudi standards. Some certifications may be valid for one year, while others could have a different duration. It’s essential for businesses to check the specific validity period associated with their product category.

Documents Required for SASO/SABER Certification

  • Technical File, Product Master File (TCF)
  • Product Testing
  • System Manual
  • System Procedure
  • Policy
  • Objectives
  • Mission & Vision
  • Plant Master File
  • Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)
  • Checklist
  • Forms
  • Formats
  • Records

The extent of Documented Information differs as per:

  • Product and it's uses
  • Testing requirement of products
  • Directive in which product classified
  • Self Certification or Compliance Certification
  • Notify body Certificate

Role of Shamkris and Process of SASO/SABER Certification

Shamkris adopts a results-oriented approach to effective system implementation in the organization. A simple and practical method of system implementation helps organizations increase business efficiency and sustainability. Shamkris supports 100% documentation to obtain an accreditation body of success in addition to enhanced performance.

The implementation process is described below:

Time Frame

Task

Process

Day 1

Scope defined
Self Certification/NoBo
Selection
Cost Estimates

  • Finding directive and SASO/SABER standard applicable to the product
  • Selecting the appropriate certification scheme
  • Based on the scope of the product and certification scheme

Week 1

Developing Documents

  • Technical file, Plant Master file and Test Protocol Management System Manual, Management System
  • Procedures, Policy, Objectives, Forms etc.
  • Review of Standard Operating Procedures (SOP)

Week 4

Implementing Product Management System

  • SASO/SABER Awareness training to QC manager and Production Manager
  • Implementing a well-documented manual throughout the life cycle of the product

Week 8

Internal Audit
MRM
CAPA

  • Internal audits identifying nonconformities related to SASO/SABER requirements
  • Management Review Meetings
  • Corrective and Preventive Action plan for nonconformities

Week 10

Self Certification/NoBo
Audit
N-C Closing

  • Shamkris acts on your behalf and assists you in the third-party audit
  • Closing of any nonconformities identified by the Self Certification/NoBo

Week 12

Self Certification/NoBo

  • SASO/SABER certificates issued for 1 years
  • Surveillance Audits yearly

Year on Year

Yearly Compliance

  • Support of Yearly documentation for audit

FAQ

SASO/SABER Certification, or the Saudi Product Safety Program, is a conformity assessment system established by the Saudi Standards, Metrology, and Quality Organization (SASO). It ensures that products imported into Saudi Arabia meet the necessary safety and quality standards.

Businesses and manufacturers exporting certain products to Saudi Arabia, particularly in categories such as electronics, machinery, toys, cosmetics, and others, may be required to obtain SASO/SABER Certification.

The certification process is typically initiated through the SABER online platform. Manufacturers or exporters can register their products, submit relevant documentation, and undergo testing to demonstrate conformity with Saudi standards.

Products falling within specific categories, such as electrical and electronic items, machinery, toys, cosmetics, and more, may require SASO/SABER Certification. The list of products subject to certification is determined by Saudi authorities and may evolve over time.

The validity period varies based on the type of product and the relevant Saudi standards. Certification is typically valid for a specific period, and businesses need to renew it before expiration.

If the certification expires, businesses may face disruptions in exporting products to Saudi Arabia. It’s essential to renew the certification before expiration to ensure ongoing compliance.