Understanding Saber Certificate Cost: What Importer in Saudi Arabia Need to Know

Understanding Saber Certificate Cost: What Importers in Saudi Arabia Need to Know

In today's fast-paced global trade environment, Saudi Arabia has become a crucial market for many exporters around the world. To ensure product safety and compliance, the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO) has implemented the Saber platform, a digital system designed to streamline conformity assessment procedures. One of the most frequently asked questions among importers and exporters is: what is the cost of obtaining a Saber certificate? In this guide, we'll explore everything importers in Saudi Arabia need to know about Saber certificate cost, what influences the price, and how to manage your budget effectively.

What is a Saber Certificate?

The Saber platform was introduced by SASO to simplify and digitize the process of certifying consumer products before they enter the Saudi market. A Saber Certificate confirms that a product complies with Saudi regulations and is safe for consumers.

There are two main types of certificates issued through Saber:

1. Product Certificate of Conformity (PCoC) – confirms that the product complies with specific technical regulations.
2. Shipment Certificate of Conformity (SCoC) – required for every shipment entering Saudi Arabia.

Every product listed in the Saber system must go through these two stages of certification to ensure its entry into the Kingdom.

Why Is Saber Certification Important?

Importers and exporters who fail to obtain the correct certification can face severe consequences. These include customs delays, product rejection at the border, and financial penalties. Obtaining the Saber certificate not only ensures compliance but also boosts your product's credibility in the Saudi market.

The Saber certificate has become mandatory for a wide range of products including electrical appliances, cosmetics, toys, building materials, and more. Without this certification, products cannot legally be sold or distributed in the Kingdom.

Factors That Affect Saber Certificate Cost

Understanding the Saber certificate cost begins with recognizing the multiple variables that influence pricing. Here are the key factors:

1. Product Type

Different product categories may fall under different technical regulations. For example, electrical items may require more testing and compliance documentation compared to textile or paper products. Complex products usually incur higher costs.

2. Nature of Certification Body

Saber allows you to choose from approved conformity assessment bodies (CABs) for the Product Certificate. Each CAB may have its own fee structure depending on the scope, speed of service, and documentation requirements.

3. Country of Origin

Products manufactured in countries with robust testing and certification frameworks may qualify for faster, and sometimes cheaper, certification processes.

4. Number of SKUs

The more stock-keeping units (SKUs) you have under one product line, the more complex and expensive the process becomes. Each SKU may require separate documentation or testing, increasing the overall cost.

5. Annual or One-time Certification

Some Saber certificates, like the PCoC, are valid for one year and must be renewed. This recurring cost should be factored into your long-term budget planning.

6. Third-Party Testing

If your product is not previously certified or lacks proper documentation, additional lab testing might be required. These external testing fees are separate and can significantly increase the final cost.

Average Saber Certificate Cost

While costs vary, on average, businesses can expect the following range:

• Product Certificate (PCoC): SAR 500–1,200 per product
• Shipment Certificate (SCoC): SAR 500–700 per shipment

These prices are exclusive of testing fees, documentation preparation, or consultancy charges if you're using a service provider.

Keep in mind that these costs may increase depending on the risk category of the product or the chosen certification body.

Saber Certificate Cost – What to Expect in 2025

As regulatory systems evolve, pricing structures also change. In 2025, Saber fees may see slight increases due to enhanced digital infrastructure and expanded product scope under Saudi technical regulations. For the most up-to-date saber certificate cost, always refer to an authorized conformity assessment body or an experienced local consultant.

Tips to Reduce Your Saber Certification Cost

While some costs are unavoidable, here are a few ways to keep your expenses under control:

• Bundle Products Strategically: If your products share the same family or regulatory category, you might save on certification fees.
• Use Local Testing When Possible: Sometimes, testing within Saudi Arabia may be more cost-effective.
• Plan Ahead for Renewals: Don't wait until your certificate is about to expire—renew early to avoid rush fees or penalties.
• Work with a Professional Consultant: Although they charge a fee, experienced consultants can streamline the process, minimize delays, and prevent costly errors.

Common Mistakes That Increase Certification Costs

Many importers unknowingly inflate their costs by making avoidable mistakes such as:

• Submitting incomplete documentation
• Choosing the wrong product classification
• Delaying renewals until the last minute
• Not reviewing product labeling before shipment

These errors can result in repeated testing, resubmission fees, or even customs clearance rejection—leading to time and money losses.

Conclusion

Getting a Saber certificate is a non-negotiable step for accessing the Saudi market. Knowing the actual cost structure helps businesses plan better, avoid unnecessary fees, and ensure compliance. From choosing the right certification body to understanding product-specific regulations, every step influences your total cost.

By carefully managing the saber certificate cost and understanding what drives pricing, importers in Saudi Arabia can maintain both compliance and profitability.