The product
Does it comply with the applicable Saudi standard or technical regulation?
Saudi Quality Mark (SQM) Certification
Saudi Quality Mark
Saudi Arabia · Saudi Quality Mark
Saudi Quality Mark (SQM) Certification
The Saudi Quality Mark (SQM) is SASO’s license for products manufactured under a controlled and consistently compliant production system. It combines product conformity, testing, quality-system assessment, and a factory audit. SQM is mandatory for specific product categories and available voluntarily for other eligible products where the relevant Saudi standard and granting procedure exist.
- 10 Mandatory Categories
- Current SASO List
- Factory + Product
- Audit & Testing
- 3-Year License
- With Surveillance
Quick Summary
At a Glance
Saudi Quality Mark Certification, Briefly
The term “SQM Certification” is commonly used to refer to the license for using the Saudi Quality Mark. SASO grants the mark when the product meets the applicable Saudi requirements and the manufacturer demonstrates an effective management and production-control system capable of maintaining that conformity. The process typically involves technical-document review, product testing, a factory audit, and ongoing surveillance.
On this page, you’ll understand the following:
- Which products require SQM
- When SQM can be voluntary
- How SQM differs from SABER and G-Mark
- What happens during the factory audit
- Which documents, tests, and additional approvals may be required
Overview
How Does the Saudi Quality Mark Work?
The SQM is owned by SASO. It is placed on products that have been granted a license to use the mark.
SQM does more than check a single sample. It looks at both:
The production system
Can the manufacturer continue producing the same compliant product consistently?
That is why SQM typically involves:
- Technical-document review
- Product testing
- Quality management and quality control review
- Factory assessment
- Corrective actions where required
- License decision
- Periodic surveillance after approval
Once granted, the license allows the approved product to carry the Saudi Quality Mark.
Who Needs It
Who Needs Saudi Quality Mark Certification?
-
Manufacturers whose products fall under the mandatory SQM categories
-
Foreign manufacturers exporting these products to Saudi Arabia
-
Saudi manufacturers and suppliers seeking an SQM license
-
Manufacturers pursuing SQM voluntarily for an eligible product
-
Companies whose Saudi conformity route requires SQM alongside other product-specific approval
Mandatory Products
Which Products Require the Saudi Quality Mark?
SASO currently identifies 10 product categories for which the Saudi Quality Mark is mandatory, which are as follows:
| Mandatory Product Category | Typical Area |
|---|---|
| Gas-operated appliances and accessories | Gas appliance safety |
| Reinforcement steel bars | Construction |
| Cement | Construction |
| Ready-mixed concrete | Construction |
| Ceramic and porcelain tiles | Building products |
| Iron sheets / flat steel products | Construction |
| Aluminum composite cladding panels | Building facades |
| Plastic degradation aids | Environmental/plastics |
| Electrical connections | Electrical products |
| Plugs & electrical switches | Electrical products |
For products outside the mandatory list, SQM may still be available voluntarily where the relevant Saudi standard or granting procedure exists.
That is why the complete regulatory route should be mapped before the SQM application starts.
Which Route Applies?
SQM vs SABER vs G-Mark — What Is the Difference?
These three terms often appear together, but they perform different jobs.
| Comparison | SQM | SABER | G-Mark |
|---|---|---|---|
| What is it | Saudi national quality-mark license | Saudi product and shipment conformity platform | Gulf conformity route |
| Framework | SASO | SASO | GSO |
| Main purpose | Product conformity + consistent manufacturing controls | Identifies and manages Saudi conformity requirements | Conformity under specific Gulf Technical Regulations |
| Factory audit | Core part of the SQM process | Not a function of the platform itself | Depends on the applicable Gulf route |
| Scope | Mandatory categories + eligible voluntary products | Products entering the Saudi conformity system | Products covered by applicable Gulf regulations |
SQM
It is the license to use the Saudi Quality Mark. It assesses the product and the manufacturing system behind it.
SABER
It is the Saudi electronic conformity platform. It is used to manage applicable product and shipment conformity requirements; SABER itself is not a certification scheme.
G-Mark
It applies to products covered by specific Gulf Technical Regulations, such as certain low-voltage electrical equipment and toys.
So the correct question is not simply, “Do I need SQM or G-Mark?” It is:
Which Saudi and Gulf conformity requirements apply to this exact product and HS code?
Process
The Saudi Quality Mark Certification Process
-
Applicability & Standard
Determine whether SQM is mandatory or voluntary and identify the applicable Saudi standard, technical regulation, and granting procedure.
-
Application
Register the establishment, complete the SQM application, and compile the required company and product information.
-
Product Testing
Provide an ISO/IEC 17025-accredited laboratory report covering the product and applicable standard. Additional testing may be needed where evidence is incomplete.
-
Quality System
Prepare the Quality Manual or QMS, production-control procedures, self-monitoring records, and quality-control scheme.
-
Factory Audit
Officials assess the factory/production site to verify manufacturing controls and its continued ability to produce compliant products. Samples may also be taken for testing.
-
Review, Decision, & License
Once technical, testing, and audit requirements are satisfied, the application moves through review and decision-making before the license to use the SQM is issued.
DOCUMENTATION
Documents Required for SQM Certification
SASO’s current licensing requirements include documentation covering both the establishment and the product.
Establishment & Quality System
- Commercial registration
- Industrial/manufacturing license
- Factory-location information
- Organizational structure
- Quality Manual or Quality Management System
- Quality-control scheme
- Product self-monitoring records
Product Documentation
- Product specifications and catalog/data label
- ISO/IEC 17025-accredited test report
- Trademark registration/ownership documentation
- Product barcode or digital coding
- Required labeling information
Additional Approvals Where Applicable
Depending on the product, SASO may also require:
- Energy-efficiency label
- Gulf Conformity Mark (G-Mark)
- IECEE Recognition Certificate
- ISO 22000 for applicable food/agricultural establishments
TIMELINE & VALIDITY
How Long Does SQM Certification Take?
Authority Service Timeframe
SASO’s current Quality Mark Licensing Service document lists a service-completion period of 70 business days. This should be treated as the authority’s service timeframe, not a guaranteed end-to-end project duration. Testing, document preparation, audit scheduling, and corrective actions can extend the total project.
License Validity
The Saudi Quality Mark license is valid for three years.
Surveillance
Approval does not end the compliance process. SASO requires regular follow-up visits at least once annually during the license period.
So, the manufacturer should maintain periodic records of product testing and inform the certification body about the relevant changes to the products or production lines.
COST
What Determines SQM Certification Cost?
SQM cost depends on the product scope and manufacturing site rather than on one fixed figure.
Typical cost elements include:
- SASO application fees
- Technical-document review
- Initial factory audit
- Product testing
- Review and decision-making activities
- License fee
- Periodic surveillance audits
- Auditor travel and accommodation where applicable
- Number of products within the certification scope
SASO publishes separate charges for these activities, with costs varying by the number of products and type of application.
Share your product and factory details for a route-specific quotation.
COMMON MISTAKES
Common Saudi Quality Mark Mistakes
-
Assuming SABER replaces mandatory SQM
SABER manages the conformity route; it does not remove a mandatory SQM requirement.
-
Ignoring additional approvals
SQM applications may still require G-Mark, IECEE, or efficiency-label evidence.
-
Treating SQM as paperwork only
The manufacturing system and factory audit are central to approval.
-
Weak production and quality records
Procedures must be supported by actual implementation and records at the factory.
-
Using unsuitable laboratory evidence
The test report must come from an appropriately accredited laboratory covering the relevant product field.
-
Product data does not match the application
Models, labeling, specifications, test reports, and production information need to remain aligned.
-
Changing the product or production line without review
Relevant changes should be communicated during the license period.
-
Neglecting surveillance
Follow-up audits and continued product testing are part of maintaining the three-year license.
Regulatory Framework
MARKEK SUPPORT
How Markek Supports Your SQM Certification
Markek helps manufacturers and exporters navigate the complete Saudi Quality Mark process.
-
Applicability & Route Mapping
We confirm whether SQM is mandatory or voluntary and map any SABER, G-Mark, IECEE, or efficiency requirements alongside it.
-
Testing & Technical File Review
We review existing test evidence and prepare the product documentation required for the application.
-
QMS & Factory Audit Preparation
We assess factory procedures, production controls, records, and audit readiness before the formal assessment.
-
Application & Assessment Coordination
We support the application, technical review, testing, audit coordination, and corrective-action process.
-
Surveillance & Change Support
After approval, we help manufacturers stay prepared for periodic follow-up and product or production changes.
Frequently asked questions
What is Saudi Quality Mark Certification?
SQM Certification is the process of obtaining SASO’s license to use the Saudi Quality Mark. It combines product conformity with assessment of the manufacturer’s management and production-control system.
Which Products Require SQM?
SASO currently lists 10 mandatory categories, including cement, ready-mixed concrete, reinforcement steel, ceramic tiles, gas appliances, electrical connections, plugs and switches, and specified building and plastic products.
Is SQM Mandatory for Every Product?
No. SQM is mandatory only for specified categories. For other products, it can be voluntary where an applicable Saudi standard or granting procedure exists.
What is the difference between SQM and SABER?
SQM is a product quality-mark license involving product and factory assessment. SABER is the Saudi electronic platform used to manage applicable product and shipment conformity requirements.
What Is the Difference Between SQM and G-Mark?
SQM is a Saudi national quality mark. G-Mark is a Gulf conformity route under specific GSO technical regulations. A product can require both where the applicable regulations say so.
Can I Need SQM and G-Mark at the Same Time?
Yes. SASO’s SQM requirements specifically ask applicants to provide G-Mark evidence where the product is also subject to the Gulf Conformity Mark.
What happens during the SQM factory audit?
The audit checks whether the production system can consistently manufacture products that meet the applicable requirements. Auditors review processes, quality controls, records, and product conformity and may withdraw samples for testing.
How Long Does SQM Certification Take?
SASO currently lists 70 business days as the Quality Mark licensing service duration. The overall project may take longer if testing, preparation, audit scheduling, or corrective actions are needed.
How Long Is the SQM License Valid?
The license is valid for three years, with regular follow-up visits at least annually and renewal requirements before or around the end of the license cycle.
Which Documents Are Required for SQM?
Typical documents include company and manufacturing licenses, QMS documentation, quality-control procedures, product information, laboratory test reports, trademark documents, barcodes, and additional approvals such as G-Mark or IECEE, where applicable.
Are SABER Certificates Free for SQM Products?
SASO lists free issuance of product and shipment conformity certificates in SABER among the benefits of obtaining the Saudi Quality Mark.
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