Exporting products to Saudi Arabia has become easier and more streamlined thanks to the SABER certification platform, developed by the Saudi Standards, Metrology, and Quality Organization (SASO). A SABER certificate is essential for all imported products, ensuring they meet strict safety and technical standards. For Indian exporters, understanding the process can save time, prevent delays, and simplify entry into this important market.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to obtain your SABER certification easily.
Step 1: Understand the SABER Certification Platform
Before starting the process, familiarize yourself with the SABER certification platform. It is an online system where Saudi importers and exporters submit product details, documentation, and test results. The platform streamlines the certification process, making it transparent and faster compared to traditional manual methods.
Knowing how the platform works will help you avoid common mistakes and ensure your application proceeds smoothly.
Step 2: Prepare Required Documentation
Proper documentation is the foundation of obtaining a SABER certificate in India. Required documents generally include:
- Product specifications and descriptions
- Manufacturer certificates and proof of origin
- Test reports from accredited laboratories
- Safety manuals, labels, and packaging information
- Commercial invoices and shipping details
Accurate and complete documentation reduces delays and ensures the certification body can quickly verify compliance.
Step 3: Choose an Accredited Certification Body
Selecting the right conformity assessment body (CAB) is a key step in simplifying the certification process. CABs are accredited by SASO to verify product compliance and issue SABER certificates.
Indian exporters should choose CABs familiar with handling SABER certificates in India, as experienced bodies can guide you efficiently through testing, documentation, and platform submission.
Step 4: Conduct SABER Testing
For many products, SABER testing is required to ensure compliance with Saudi standards. Testing is performed at accredited laboratories and may include safety, performance, chemical, or mechanical evaluations depending on the product category.
Proper planning of testing ensures minimal delays. Exporters can send samples to labs while preparing other documentation, so both processes run simultaneously, making certification faster.
Step 5: Submit Documents and Test Reports
Once your documents are ready and testing is complete, submit everything through the SABER certification platform. The CAB will review the files, verify compliance, and, if everything is in order, issue your Product Certificate of Conformity (PCoC).
For Indian exporters, accurate submission at this stage ensures smooth approval and avoids repeated requests for missing information.
Step 6: Obtain Shipment Certificate (SCoC)
After receiving the PCoC, each shipment to Saudi Arabia requires a Shipment Certificate of Conformity (SCoC). This certificate confirms that the shipped products match the approved specifications and are cleared for customs. The SCoC is issued electronically through the SABER platform, making the export process seamless.
Step 7: Tips for a Smooth SABER Certification Process
- Plan Ahead: Prepare documents and testing well before shipment dates.
- Work with Experienced CABs: Experienced certification bodies streamline approval.
- Keep Records Ready: Maintain organized technical files and test reports.
- Track Progress Online: Use the SABER platform to monitor approvals and certificates.
Following these tips ensures that obtaining a SABER certificate is fast, efficient, and stress-free.
Summary
Obtaining your SABER certificate in India doesn’t have to be complicated. By understanding the SABER certification platform, preparing accurate documents, choosing the right CAB, completing SABER testing, and submitting all information correctly, exporters can achieve certification quickly and efficiently.
A valid SABER certificate ensures regulatory compliance, smooth customs clearance, and reliable access to the Saudi market — all while enhancing your credibility as an exporter. With proper preparation and guidance, exporting to Saudi Arabia can become a straightforward and profitable process.
