⚙️ SASO SALEEM and SABER Program

🎯 Objective and Background

Launched in 2017 as part of Saudi Vision 2030, the SALEEM Program introduced a unified system for conformity assessment.

Through the SABER platform (www.saber.sa), importers register products, upload technical documentation, and obtain Certificates of Conformity (CoC) electronically.

These certificates are automatically verified at Saudi customs, enabling faster clearance and reducing non‑conforming imports.

🔍 Scope of the Program

SALEEM applies to most consumer and industrial products entering Saudi Arabia, except those under the SFDA’s supervision (such as food, medicine, or cosmetics).

Key authorities involved include:

• SASO – Technical oversight and regulation
• Saudi Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources (MIMR) – Approval of certain Declarations of Conformity
• Saudi Customs Authority – Clearance enforcement

🧾 Process Steps

1- Request for Certificate: Submission of product details, conformity records, and invoices on SABER.

2- Documentary Review: Verification against applicable Saudi or Gulf standards.

3- Testing/Inspection: Control testing and factory audits if required.

4- Issuance of CoC: Approved certificates appear automatically in the customs system for shipment release.

🛡️ Compliance and Labeling Requirements

• Each product must show the country of origin in full wording (“Made in China,” not “Made in P.R.C.”).
• Manuals must be available in Arabic and English.
• Electrical products must comply with 230/400 V and 60 Hz power specifications.
• UK‑type plugs are mandatory for single‑phase equipment.
• Labels must be clear, non‑removable, and culturally appropriate.

📷 SABER Recent Updates and Requirements

• Photo Uploads: As of July 2022, uploading product images is mandatory for both regulated and non‑regulated products during registration. Three photos are required—front, label, and brand.
• New Declarations: In 2025, SASO mandated a Declaration of Conformity approved by the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources (MIMR) for certain HS‑coded products (e.g., building materials, paints, steel, ceramics, and batteries).
• Used Vehicles: From June 2024, shipment certificates became mandatory for individuals importing used vehicles for personal use, with certificates issued by authorized conformity bodies for customs clearance.

🧴 SFDA Cosmetics Conformity Assessment

🌐 Scope and Authority

The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) oversees the conformity of cosmetic and personal care products imported into the Kingdom.

The process applies to exporters from numerous countries, including the UAE, India, China, the UK, France, Germany, Brazil, and others.

🧩 Assessment Process

1- Consignment‑Based Conformity Assessment: Each shipment is evaluated against SFDA cosmetic regulations.

2- Testing and Inspection: Conducted by SFDA‑authorized assessment bodies.

3- Certification: A Certificate of Conformity (CoC) is issued after successful review and uploaded to FASEH, the SFDA’s clearance platform.

4- Labelling & Origin Rules:

• Country of origin must be written clearly and permanently.
• “Assembled in” markings are not accepted.
• Claims must not include medical or therapeutic benefits.

The FASEH platform, launched in 2021, digitally integrates conformity certification with import clearance, eliminating manual paperwork and minimizing delays.

👑 Product Categories Covered

Cosmetic and personal care items under regulation include:

• Skincare products (lotions, creams, gels)
• Perfumes and deodorants
• Hair and nail care products
• Shaving and make‑up products
• Tooth and mouth care products
• Hotel amenities and wet wipes

🚫 Import Restrictions & Prohibited Goods

The following remain banned or restricted under Saudi import laws and VoC enforcement:

• Goods offensive to Islamic values or produced in Israel.
• Used consumer goods (except for personal use).
• Used car parts, unless refurbished with proof of conformity.
• Appliances using 127 V power, except dual‑voltage models (per Ministry decision).
• Refrigerants containing banned gases such as CFCs and HCFCs.
• Counterfeit and non‑conforming goods.

All importers should verify product eligibility through the official Saudi Customs HS code database to avoid violations or delays.

🧠 Key Benefits of the Saudi VoC Program

• ✅ Streamlined customs clearance via automated certificate validation
• ✅ Reduction of counterfeit or unsafe products in the market
• ✅ Enhanced consumer and environmental protection
• ✅ Alignment with Saudi Vision 2030 quality and sustainability goals

🤝 How ComplyMarket Can Support You

Navigating the VoC requirements for Saudi Arabia can be complex.

ComplyMarket helps exporters and compliance teams by:

• Guiding SABER and FASEH platform registrations
• Managing document preparation and CoC requests
• Coordinating with authorized inspection entities
• Tracking regulatory changes from SASO and SFDA

Our expert support ensures your shipments remain compliant, certified, and ready for customs clearance on time.