Saudi Arabia import requirements

Saudi Arabia stands today as the largest and most influential import market in the Middle East, playing a central role in global trade and regional economic growth. With its rapidly expanding population, strong purchasing power, and strategic location, the Kingdom has become a vital hub for international exporters seeking access to the Gulf and wider Middle Eastern markets. Import to Saudi is not only driven by the growing demand for consumer goods, food products, and advanced technologies but also by the government’s ambitious Vision 2030 plan, which is reshaping the economy through diversification and infrastructure development. The country’s modern ports, logistics networks, and streamlined regulations further enhance its position as a gateway for international trade. As businesses worldwide look for new opportunities, Saudi Arabia’s import market stands out as a dynamic and essential destination, fostering long-term partnerships and fueling sustainable economic progress across the region.

Why businesses must understand Saudi Arabia’s import requirements

Businesses must understand Saudi Arabia’s import requirements to ensure smooth, legal, and profitable entry into the country’s market. Non-compliance can lead to severe penalties, including fines, shipment delays, or even the seizure and destruction of goods. The Kingdom has a strict and multi-layered regulatory system designed to protect consumers and the local market.

(SABER) Key Regulations and Platforms

A core element of the Saudi Arabia entry requirements is the SABER platform. Administered by the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO), this online system is mandatory for registering and certifying products. It helps streamline customs clearance by ensuring products meet technical standards and safety regulations before they even arrive. Without a proper Product Certificate of Conformity (PCoC) and a Shipment Certificate of Conformity (SCoC) obtained through SABER, a shipment cannot legally clear customs.

The Essential Documentation and Product Classification

Accurate and complete documentation is crucial for a successful import to Saudi Arabia. Businesses must prepare essential documents like a commercial invoice, bill of lading, and certificate of origin. In addition, they need to correctly classify their goods using the correct import code Saudi Arabia, which is the 12-digit Saudi tariff code. This code is based on the international Harmonized System – HS code but includes additional digits specific to Saudi regulations, which determine the correct customs duties and taxes.

Specific Sector Requirements

Certain sectors like food, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices, have additional Saudi Arabia import requirements enforced by the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA). These goods require extra permits, registration, and specific labelling in both Arabic and English to ensure they’re safe for public consumption. Failure to meet these specific regulations can result in immediate rejection of the shipment. By thoroughly understanding and adhering to these requirements, businesses can avoid costly setbacks and build a trustworthy reputation in the Saudi market

Certification systems under Saudi Arabia’s Import requirements

Under Saudi Arabia import requirements, certification systems play a vital role in ensuring that products entering the Kingdom comply with national standards for safety, quality, and performance. These certifications are mandatory for businesses that wish to import to Saudi, and understanding them is essential for smooth customs clearance and market entry.

SABER Certification (SASO)

The Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO) operates the SABER platform, which is the official system for verifying product conformity. Importers must register their products through SABER and obtain two key certifications:

1- Product Certificate of Conformity (PCoC): This certificate verifies that a specific product complies with Saudi technical regulations and standards before it is shipped to the Kingdom. Each product requires a separate PCoC.

2- Shipment Certificate of Conformity (SCoC):  Once the PCoC is issued, every individual shipment must also receive an SCoC to confirm that the goods being imported match the certified products.

Read more :  What is a SABER Certificate? 

SFDA Certifications

For food, beverages, and cosmetics, the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) has its own set of import certifications. These include:

• Food Certificate of Conformity (CoC): Required for all imported food products to ensure they meet health, safety, and quality standards set by the SFDA.

• Certificate of Conformity (CoC) for Cosmetics: Required for cosmetics and personal care products, this certification guarantees that items are safe for consumer use and comply with Saudi labeling and safety regulations.

These certification systems form the backbone of Saudi Arabia entry requirements. By securing the proper PCoC, SCoC, and SFDA certifications, businesses can ensure full compliance, reduce delays at customs, and build trust in the Saudi market.

Saudi Arabia’s import requirements for food

As we mentioned before, Saudi Arabia has strict import requirements for food products to protect consumer health and maintain high market standards. Companies planning to import to Saudi Arabia must comply with regulations set by the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) and other relevant authorities. The process involves several key steps and documents such as :

1- Importer Registration with SFDA

Before bringing food products into the Kingdom, businesses must register as importers with the SFDA. This registration is mandatory and allows companies to legally import food, ensuring accountability and compliance with Saudi Arabia import requirements.

Read More : What are SFDA Registration Requirements?

2- Commercial Invoice

A detailed commercial invoice is required for every shipment. It must clearly state the description of goods, quantity, price, and terms of sale, ensuring transparency in trade transactions.

3- Certificate of Origin

Issued by the exporter’s local chamber of commerce, this certificate confirms the country where the food products were manufactured or processed. Saudi authorities use it to verify authenticity and trade agreements.

4- Food Labelling Requirements

All imported food must comply with Saudi labelling rules. Labels should be in Arabic (or bilingual with Arabic included) and must display product name, ingredients, production and expiry dates, storage instructions, and nutritional information when required. Non-compliant labelling can result in shipment rejection.

5- Bill of Lading

This is a crucial transport document that provides evidence of the shipment and details about the carrier, consignee, and goods. It is required for customs clearance at Saudi ports.

6- Phytosanitary Certificate

For plant-based food products, a phytosanitary certificate is necessary. It confirms that the goods have been inspected and are free from pests and diseases, ensuring food safety and agricultural protection.

How Tabseer Helps Businesses with Saudi Arabia Import Requirements

Tabseer plays a vital role in guiding businesses through the complex process of meeting Saudi Arabia import requirements. With its expertise in testing, inspection, and certification, Tabseer ensures that importers can access the Saudi market smoothly and with full compliance.

1- Saber Registration and Certification Support

Tabseer assists companies in navigating the SABER platform, which is essential for product registration under the Saudi Standards, Metrology, and Quality Organization (SASO). From initial registration to certification approval, Tabseer simplifies the process, ensuring products meet all technical regulations.

2- Assisting Importers in Obtaining the Certificate of Conformity (CoC) and Product

Certificate of Conformity (PCoC)

Tabseer supports importers in securing both the CoC and PCoC, which are mandatory for customs clearance. These certificates confirm that products comply with Saudi safety and quality standards, preventing shipment delays or rejections.

3- Food and Cosmetics Import Certificates of Conformity and Inspections

For sensitive categories such as food and cosmetics, Tabseer provides specialized services, including conformity certification and inspection. This ensures compliance with Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) regulations, safeguarding consumer health and ensuring smooth market entry.

How importers and exporters can contact Tabseer

Here’s how you, as importers and exporters, can contact Tabseer company:

General Contact Email: info@tabseer.co

Phone Number: +966 11 299 – 9999
Head Office Address: Tabseer – Saudi Arabia, Riyadh, Eastern Ring Branch Road

If you want, I can also find additional regional contacts (offices in Jeddah, Dammam, etc.), or specific contact points (for Customs, Labelling, SFDA-related departments).