Preparation for certification: pre-audit and analysis
The first step in obtaining the Saudi Quality Mark (SQM) is to prepare the factory for the upcoming audit. This involves conducting an internal review of production processes and the quality management system to ensure they comply with SASO (Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization) requirements. It’s crucial to gather internal guidelines, production manuals, and results of past inspections in advance to reduce the risk of non-compliance.Required documents for SQM certification
To apply for SQM, a company must submit a comprehensive set of documents, including:- the official certification application form;
- technical product specifications;
- results of internal and external testing (if available);
- certificates of conformity from other countries (if any);
- copies of business licenses and company registrations;
- quality control plans and audit reports.
Timeline for obtaining the Saudi Quality Mark
The overall process to obtain SQM usually takes between 4 to 6 months. The initial stage — document review and pre-audit — typically lasts 1–2 months. This is followed by laboratory product testing, which can take another 1–2 months. After successful tests and audits, the certificate and authorization to use the SQM mark are issued. The timeline may vary depending on product complexity and laboratory capacity.Fees and additional costs
The total cost of obtaining SQM consists of several components: application fees, factory audit fees, laboratory testing costs, and annual maintenance fees for the certificate. On average, the overall expenses range from $10,000 to $30,000, depending on the product type and production scale. Companies should also budget for document preparation and potential production adjustments needed to meet requirements.If you want to obtain the Saudi Quality Mark quickly and accurately, contact WorldWideBridge. We fully manage the entire process — from document preparation to final certification and audit support. With us, you save time, reduce costs, and ensure your products enter the Saudi market legally and confidently.