Saudi Arabia is one of the Middle East's largest and most
New to KSA? This Is Your Starter Pack to Saudi Market A attractive export markets, but first-time exporters often encounter unfamiliar compliance requirements. Understanding the key regulatory frameworks before shipping can save time, costs, and customs delays.
1. Start with SALEEM
The SALEEM Programme is Saudi Arabia's product safety system, designed to ensure imported products comply with applicable technical regulations and safety requirements before entering the market. Products are classified according to risk levels, with conformity assessment requirements varying by category.
2. Register Through SABER
SABER is the online platform used to manage product registration and certification under SALEEM. Most regulated products require:
A Product Certificate of Conformity (PCoC), typically valid for one year.
A Shipment Certificate of Conformity (SCoC) for each consignment.
Without the necessary SABER certifications, products may face customs clearance issues.
3. Check if You Need the Saudi Quality Mark (SQM)
The Saudi Quality Mark (SQM) demonstrates that a product and its manufacturing process meet higher quality and compliance standards. While voluntary for many products, it is mandatory for certain categories and can help strengthen market confidence.
4. Don't Forget SFDA Requirements
If you're exporting:
Food & beverages
Cosmetics
Medical devices
Pharmaceuticals
Food contact materials
Your products may fall under the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) and require separate approvals in addition to SABER requirements.
Before You Ship
Identify applicable Saudi regulations
Confirm whether SABER registration is required
Check if SQM applies to your product
Determine whether SFDA approval is needed
Ensure all documentation and labelling requirements are met
Ready to Access the Saudi Market?
Whether you're exporting consumer goods, industrial equipment, construction materials, food, or cosmetics, understanding SALEEM, SABER, SQM, and SFDA requirements is the first step to a successful shipment.
Need guidance? Contact Cotecna's experts to simplify compliance and export to Saudi Arabia with confidence.
About Cotecna
For over 50 years, we have been supporting agriculture, food and pharma, minerals and metals, and consumer products supply chains all over the world. We provide testing, inspection, and certification services to help our clients navigate evolving regulations, ensure product compliance, and support their sustainability journey.