For B2B brands, factories, and supply chain managers sourcing small home appliances, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) represents one of the most lucrative yet tightly regulated markets in the Middle East.
If you are importing air fryers into Saudi Arabia, you must strictly comply with the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO) mandates. Managing this process requires navigating SABER (the mandatory electronic clearance system) and knowing the exact compliance requirements for small kitchen appliances.
1. The Core Compliance Dual-Path
Air fryers are categorized as high-utility, heat-generating kitchen appliances. To clear Saudi customs, they require two distinct digital certificates issued exclusively via the online Saber Platform (saber.sa).
- 1. PCoC (Product Certificate of Conformity): This certificate verifies that the air fryer design meets Saudi technical regulations. It requires third-party testing by an SASO-accredited Certification Body (CAB) and is valid for 1 year.
- 2. SCoC (Shipment Certificate of Conformity): This certificate is required for every single batch or container shipped. It acts as a customs clearance permit linked directly to the commercial invoice of that specific shipment and is valid only for that batch.
2. Technical Prerequisites for Air Fryers
Before a certification body approves your PCoC on Saber, the air fryer must pass three non-negotiable technical gates:
The IECEE Recognition Certificate (The Foundation)
Because an air fryer is a high-wattage heating appliance, you cannot apply for a Saber PCoC using just a standard test report. You must first obtain a SASO IECEE Recognition Certificate (SIRC).
To get a SIRC, your manufacturing factory must supply a valid IECEE CB Test Certificate and CB Report based on the international safety standard IEC 60335-2-9 (particular requirements for grills, toasters, and similar portable cooking appliances).
Gulf Mark (G-Mark) Compliance
Air fryers fall under the Low Voltage Technical Regulation for the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). The product must bear the G-Mark logo and a unique tracking QR code. The factory must have its technical file evaluated by a Gulf Notified Body before entering the Saudi marketplace.
Voltage, Plug, and Frequency Specifications
Saudi Arabia strictly enforces its localized grid requirements. Air fryers engineered for the West or domestic Asian markets will be rejected if they do not match these specifications:
- Voltage: Must support 220V – 230V (single phase).
- Frequency: Must be rated at 60 Hz (dual 50/60Hz is widely accepted, but 50Hz-only models are strictly prohibited).
- Plug Type: Must be fitted with a UK 3-pin plug (Type G) complying with SASO BS 1363.
3. Labeling and Food-Contact Rules
Saudi Customs (ZATCA) will physically inspect incoming containers. Labeling non-compliance is the number one cause of border delays.
- Dual-Language Markings: The air fryer’s outer retail packaging, safety warnings, and user manual must be printed in Arabic (or English and Arabic side-by-side). The control panel interface should feature clear icons or Arabic/English text.
- Country of Origin: A permanent, unremovable mark stating “Made in China” (or the respective country of manufacture) must be molded, engraved, or printed securely on the physical rating label of the air fryer. Stickers are frequently rejected.
- Food-Contact Declaration: Because the air fryer basket features a non-stick coating that touches food directly, you must submit a declaration confirming compliance with the SASO Technical Regulation for Food Safety of Tools and Appliances. This proves the coating does not leach toxic heavy metals or chemical compounds under high heat.
4. The 4-Step Saber Sourcing Workflow
[ Step 1: Factory Audit ] —> [ Step 2: SIRC Upload ] —> [ Step 3: PCoC Issued ] —> [ Step 4: SCoC Cleared ]
Verify CB Report, Submit CB files to Saber Select an accredited CAB Link commercial invoice
G-Mark, & 60Hz specs. to secure the SIRC. to approve 1-year PCoC. to generate the SCoC.
Step 1: Verify Factory Documentation
Before placing a deposit down with an OEM factory, demand their CB Test Report (IEC 60335-2-9), G-Mark certificate, and real photos of the 60Hz rating label.
Step 2: Apply for the SIRC
The local Saudi importer registers the factory’s CB credentials on the Saber system to secure the SASO IECEE Recognition Certificate.
Step 3: Generate the Product Certificate (PCoC)
On Saber, the importer enters the updated 12-digit Saudi HS Code for the air fryer, chooses an authorized third-party certification body, pays the 500 SR registration fee, and uploads the SIRC, G-Mark, and product photos. The CAB reviews and issues the PCoC digitally within 3 to 5 business days.
Step 4: Secure the Shipment Certificate (SCoC)
Once production is finished and the goods are packed, the importer uploads the commercial invoice and packing list to Saber. The system matches it against the active PCoC and instantly generates the SCoC. The container is now fully legally cleared to sail.
⚠️ High-Risk Pitfalls to Avoid
- The SCoC Timing Trap: Never let a ship leave the origin port without the SCoC completely generated. The Saudi government has fully abolished emergency letters of undertaking. Arriving without an SCoC triggers severe customs penalties or forced return shipments.
- Mismatched Model Numbers: Ensure the exact model number on the air fryer’s physical sticker matches every digit on the SIRC, the invoice, and the Saber portal. A single missing hyphen or suffix can cause a customs rejection.