Frequently asked questions

• What is the IECEE CB Scheme?

  The IECEE CB Scheme is an international conformity-assessment system for electrical and electronic products. Testing through an accepted CBTL produces a CB Test Report, while an accepted NCB issues the corresponding CB Test Certificate.

• What Is the SASO IECEE National Recognition Certificate?

  It is the Saudi certificate recognizing acceptable IECEE CB evidence while considering Saudi national differences and additional local requirements. It is mandatory for the product categories currently listed by SASO.

• What Is the Difference Between CBTC, CBTR, and SASO Recognition?

  The CBTR contains the detailed test results. The CBTC confirms testing under the IECEE CB Scheme. The SASO Recognition Certificate is the Saudi national recognition based on this evidence.

• Which Products Require IECEE Recognition in Saudi Arabia?

  SASO currently lists 19 product categories, including phones, power banks, computers, lighting, TVs, dishwashers, kettles, coffee makers, gaming devices, cables, circuit breakers, small solar PV systems, and several other electrical products.

• Is SASO IECEE Recognition Mandatory?

  Yes, for the product categories included in SASO’s mandatory Recognition scope. For electrical products outside that list, another Saudi conformity route may apply instead.

• Does IECEE Recognition Replace SABER?

  Not at all. Under the Saudi conformity route, an IECEE Recognition certificate may be needed for the product, but depending on the product and HS code, SABER registration or shipment requirements may still be in place.

• Can I Use an Existing CB Certificate?

  Most of the time, yes. First, the CBTC and CBTR should be checked to make sure they are the right model, issued by the right body, meet the right standards, have the right edition, report the right age, and cover Saudi national differences.

• What Are Saudi National Differences?

  These are Saudi-specific requirements that are in addition to the base IEC standard. Examples include plug requirements, adopted standard editions, markings, and other technical clauses.

• What If My CB Test Report Is More Than Three Years Old?

  If the product, standard, or requirements have changed, SASO may ask for updated documentation or new CB evidence. For older reports, they need an extra declaration or commitment.

• Do I Also Need CST or Energy-Efficiency Certification?

  Possibly. Wireless/telecom products may require CST approval, while regulated energy-consuming products may require an energy-efficiency certificate and label. SASO lists both as additional IECEE Recognition requirements where applicable.

• Does IECEE Recognition Replace G-Mark?

  No. G-Mark is a separate Gulf conformity framework. Suitable CB evidence can support certain electrical conformity assessments, but G-Mark applies only where the relevant Gulf Technical Regulation requires it.

• How Long Does SASO IECEE Recognition Take?

  SASO currently states 5 working days for the Recognition service after complete requirements are submitted. Additional time should be allowed if CB testing, report updates, Saudi-difference testing, or other prerequisite approvals are still outstanding.