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Is It SABER or SASO Certificate? Understanding PCoC and SCoC in Saudi Arabia

21 Aug 2025 Articles

Is It SABER or SASO Certificate? Understanding PCoC and SCoC in Saudi Arabia

Overview

When importing products, understanding PCoC and SCoC in Saudi Arabia is essential. Many businesses confuse them with SABER or SASO certificates, this blog explains the common confusion around the terms  in Saudi Arabia’s conformity system. It clarifies that there is no single document by those names—instead, the system revolves around two key certificates: the Product Certificate of Conformity (PCoC) and the Shipment Certificate of Conformity (SCoC).

The article highlights how:

  • SABER is the online platform managed by SASO, the authority that sets technical regulations and standards.

  • PCoC certifies a product’s compliance with SASO standards (valid per product for one year).

  • SCoC certifies each shipment at customs (required for every import).

It also explains why the old term “SASO certificate” still causes confusion and how this can lead to delays, rejections, and added costs at customs. Finally, the blog emphasizes the importance for importers to use correct terminology and outlines how Watheeq, as an SASO-approved Conformity Assessment Body (CAB), supports businesses in obtaining PCoC and SCoC smoothly, ensuring compliance and hassle-free market access.

When importers talk about product certification in Saudi Arabia, they often use the terms “SABER certificate” or “SASO certificate.” While these phrases are widely used, they can be misleading. In reality, there is no single document called a “SASO certificate.” Instead, Saudi Arabia’s conformity system is built around two key certificates: the Product Certificate of Conformity (PCoC) and the Shipment Certificate of Conformity (SCoC).

In this article, we’ll explain what these certificates mean, why people often confuse them with SABER or SASO certificates, and how businesses can avoid costly mistakes.

What Clients Mean by “SABER or SASO Certificate” ?

SABER is the online platform launched by SASO (Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization) to manage product conformity.
SASO is the regulatory authority that sets standards and oversees the system.
When clients request a “SASO certificate” or “SABER certificate,” what they usually mean is that their product needs to be registered and approved through SABER so it can enter the Saudi market. But the actual documents required are:

1.    PCoC – Product Certificate of Conformity

2.    SCoC – Shipment Certificate of Conformity

The Two Real Certificates Behind SABER

🔹 PCoC (Product Certificate of Conformity)

Issued per product, usually valid for one year.
Confirms that the product complies with relevant SASO technical regulations and standards.
Based on test reports from accredited laboratories and assessment by an authorized Conformity Assessment Body (CAB), like Watheeq.
🔹 SCoC (Shipment Certificate of Conformity)

Issued per shipment, regardless of whether the product already has a PCoC.
Confirms that the specific shipment being imported matches the certified product.
Required at Saudi customs before goods can be cleared.
In simple terms:

PCoC = for the product (valid for multiple shipments).
SCoC = for the shipment (required every time goods are imported).

Why the Confusion Exists?

Before SABER was launched, importers used the term “SASO Certificate” to mean general product approval. Today, the SABER platform issues PCoC and SCoC, but many businesses still use the old terminology.

This confusion can:

  1. Cause delays in communication with suppliers, agents, and Conformity assessment body.
  2. Lead to missing or incorrect documents during customs clearance.
  3. Waste time and money due to rejections or non-compliance.

Why Understanding PCoC and SCoC in Saudi Arabia Matters for Importers ?

🔹 No SCoC without a PCoC: You cannot issue a shipment certificate unless the product is already certified.
🔹 Faster approvals: Using the right terminology ensures smooth coordination with your Conformity Assessment Body.
🔹 Avoid delays at customs: Submitting the correct certificates reduces the risk of clearance issues.

How Watheeq Supports You

At Watheeq, we are an SASO-approved Conformity Assessment Body (CAB) authorized to conduct assessments and issue certificates. Our role is to:

  1. Guide you step-by-step through the SABER registration process.
  2. Ensure your PCoC is approved without unnecessary delays.
  3. Handle the SCoC issuance for every shipment.
  4. Keep you updated on the latest SASO regulations and technical requirements.
  5. With our expertise, you can confidently access the Saudi market, knowing your products and shipments are fully compliant.

Conclusion

The next time someone asks for a “SASO certificate” or a “SABER certificate,” remember that what they actually need are PCoC and SCoC. These two certificates form the backbone of Saudi Arabia’s product conformity system.
By understanding the difference—and working with an accredited partner like Watheeq—you can save time, avoid confusion, and ensure smooth entry of your products into the Saudi market.

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