Importing Animal Clothing and Grooming Products into Saudi Arabia: What You Need to Know.
As interest in the import of pet products into Saudi Arabia grows, it’s important to understand the regulatory requirements involved. This guide outlines the current classification and compliance standards for animal clothing and general care products (such as grooming items) based as per Saudi FDA Products Classification Guidance Version 08.
Animal Clothing
Animal clothing is classified under the Textile SABER Technical Regulation (Type 1A), as confirmed in recent workshops hosted by the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO).
Key Action:
Register these items through the SABER platform under the applicable textile regulation before importation.
Animal General Care Products (Grooming)
These products fall under Saudi Food & Drug Authority (SFDA) jurisdiction and require clearance permission as outlined in the SFDA Product Classification Guidance. Upon arrival in Saudi Arabia, SFDA will inspect the shipment.
Animal grooming products are items designed for use on the external parts of an animal's body, primarily for cosmetic purposes. These products are used to clean, enhance appearance, or eliminate odors.
Examples include:
- Soaps and shampoos used for bathing animals to remove dirt, stains, or odors
- Dental care products intended to clean animals’ teeth
- Ear cleaners designed to remove earwax or debris
Note:
If a product contains a medicinal substance and is intended for medical purposes—such as diagnosing, treating, or preventing disease, or influencing the animal’s bodily functions—it is classified and regulated as a veterinary drug rather than a grooming product.
SFDA/FASEH Clearance Requirements:
To successfully import grooming and other general care products for animals, you must provide:
- Signed commercial invoice (with stamp from the country of origin)
- Certificate of origin
- Manufacturer’s declaration letter confirming the product is safe for use
To learn more about exporting to Saudi Arabia contact us or visit our Cotecna Saudi Arabia Webpage
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.