Vision 2030 is Saudi Arabia’s national strategy aimed at diversifying the economy and reducing dependence on the oil sector. Within its framework, the Kingdom is investing hundreds of billions of dollars in infrastructure, tourism, industry, IT, healthcare, and energy. For international businesses, this means enormous opportunities. However, access to the Saudi market is only possible under strict compliance with new rules — primarily in certification and technical regulation.
The Role of Certification in Vision 2030
1. Building a transparent and competitive market
Previously, importing goods into Saudi Arabia was complex and bureaucratic. Today, certification through the SASO system and the SABER platform has made the process unified and clear.
2. Strengthening safety and quality control
The government seeks to protect consumers and infrastructure, which is why standards for building materials, electronics, food, and medical devices are becoming stricter.
3. Ecological and energy sustainability
Vision 2030 emphasizes energy efficiency and green technologies. Products must comply with international norms such as ISO, LEED, BREEAM, and efficiency standards for energy and water use.
4. Integration with international markets
Saudi Arabia recognizes many international standards (ISO, IEC, ASTM, EN), making entry easier for global manufacturers.
Key Reforms in Certification
- SABER – a digital platform for registering all imported goods, fully digitizing the certification process.
- SASO Quality Mark (QM) – a national quality label mandatory for many product categories. Its presence increases chances of participation in tenders.
- Unified GCC standards (G-Mark) – simplify exports not only to Saudi Arabia but also to other Gulf countries.
- Accelerated procedures for strategic projects – e.g., for supplies to NEOM or energy infrastructure.
Industries Benefiting the Most
- Construction and infrastructure – demand for certified materials and technologies for NEOM, Qiddiya, and the Red Sea Project.
- Energy – renewable sources, solar panels, hydrogen technologies.
- Medicine and pharmaceuticals – SFDA certification opens access for medical devices and pharmaceuticals.
- Agro-industrial sector – phytosanitary and environmental certificates stimulate safe food exports.
- Tourism and HoReCa – rapid growth of hotels and restaurants increases demand for certified furniture, equipment, and food.
Opportunities for Business
- Access to multi-billion-dollar Vision 2030 projects – involvement in construction and infrastructure programs.
- Participation in government tenders – SASO and QM certificates grant direct access.
- Increased global credibility – products certified in Saudi Arabia are valued across the Middle East.
- Expanded export geography – GCC compliance simplifies entry into the UAE, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman.
Practical Advice for Companies
- Begin certification preparation early: verify your product category.
- Use international certificates (ISO/CE) as a foundation to speed up the process.
- Register in SABER and keep data updated.
- Consider obtaining the SASO Quality Mark as a long-term investment for public tenders.
- Work with local partners or consultants to adapt faster.
Conclusion
Saudi Arabia’s reforms under Vision 2030 are making the market more transparent and accessible for international business. Certification is the key to this market: it is not only mandatory but also a competitive advantage. Companies ready to adapt to new standards gain access to the region’s largest investment projects.Contact WorldWideBridge – we will guide your products through every stage of certification and open new opportunities for you in Saudi Arabia’s market.