The Middle East is one of the fastest-growing regions for Italian exports. Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, and Kuwait are actively investing in construction, energy, manufacturing, and infrastructure. Italian machinery, equipment, and materials have long been in high demand, but entering these markets is impossible without international certification.
To officially import and sell products, Italian companies must prove compliance with local technical regulations — primarily SASO, G-Mark, and Halal.
1. Main Certification Systems in the Middle East
SASO (Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization)Mandatory certification for exports to Saudi Arabia.
All procedures are conducted through the online platform SABER.
Required for:
- Electrical and electronic equipment
- Construction materials
- Cable and metal products
- Household appliances
Validity: 1 year
G-Mark (Gulf Conformity Mark)
Applies to all GCC countries (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman).Confirms compliance with unified GSO (Gulf Standardization Organization) standards.
Applies to:
- Electrical equipment
- Gas appliances
- Children’s toys and safety-related products
Validity: up to 3 years
Halal Certification
Particularly important for exports of food, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food-contact packaging.Confirms that products comply with Islamic standards and are approved for Muslim consumption.
Halal certificates are issued by accredited centers recognized by Islamic authorities in GCC countries.
2. Required Documents for Italian Exporters
To obtain SASO, G-Mark, or Halal certification, Italian companies must provide:- CE Declaration of Conformity (if available)
- Technical file (product description, specifications)
- Laboratory test reports according to IEC or ISO standards
- Quality management certificates (ISO 9001, ISO 14001, etc.)
- User manual and labeling (in Arabic and English)
- Product photos, diagrams, and packaging details
- Contract with a local importer or representative in the GCC
3. Certification Stages for Export to the Middle East
Stage 1: Determining Applicable RegulationsIdentify which standards apply to the product (e.g., SASO for cables, G-Mark for electrical goods, Halal for cosmetics).
Stage 2: Selecting a Notified Body
Only accredited organizations recognized by GSO or SASO can perform conformity assessment.
Stage 3: Submission and Review of Documentation
The applicant (or representative in the GCC) submits the technical file, CE/ISO certificates, and test reports.
Stage 4: Testing
Additional laboratory tests may be required, conducted in GCC-recognized labs.
Stage 5: Certification and Registration
Upon approval, the relevant certificate is issued — SASO Product Certificate, G-Mark License, or Halal Certificate.
Stage 6: Labeling and Export
Certified products receive the appropriate markings (SASO, G-Mark, or Halal) and can then be officially imported and sold in the region.
4. Common Challenges Faced by Italian Companies
- No registered importer in the SABER system
- Insufficient translation of technical documents into Arabic
- Relying solely on CE certification without local adaptation
- Incorrect labeling or packaging not meeting GCC requirements
- Late renewal of certificates (especially SASO)
5. How to Speed Up Certification and Avoid Mistakes
- Use CE and ISO documentation as a foundation, but adapt it to local regulations
- Work with recognized certification bodies accredited in the GCC
- Appoint an official representative in the region
- Translate technical documentation into Arabic before submitting the application
- Allow at least 6–10 weeks for the certification process
Conclusion
Certification for export to Middle Eastern countries is not just a formality but a strategic tool that confirms the quality and safety of Italian products.Companies that manage certification properly gain a competitive advantage: their goods clear customs faster and earn greater trust from partners and government authorities.
WorldWideBridge Company
WorldWideBridge supports Italian manufacturers through all stages of certification for Middle Eastern markets.We organize the issuance of SASO, G-Mark, and Halal certificates, translate documentation, submit applications, and provide a turnkey process.
Your exports to GCC, UAE, and Saudi Arabia — without delays and with guaranteed results.