Right to Product Safety & Quality in Saudi Arabia
Reviewed by the Commoner Law Editorial Team. Sourced from Saudi royal decrees, regulations, and ministerial decisions. Written in plain language for general understanding — this is educational content, not legal advice. Our editorial standards
What is this right?
Saudi Arabia has one of the most rigorous product safety gatekeeping systems in the region, built around the SABER platform:
- SABER certification: Before any regulated product can be imported or sold in Saudi Arabia, it must obtain a conformity certificate through the SABER electronic system (saber.sa). This applies to electronics, toys, building materials, automotive parts, cosmetics, and many other categories.
- SASO standards: Products must comply with Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO) technical standards. Non-compliant products are blocked at customs.
- Arabic labelling: All consumer products must have labels in Arabic showing ingredients, country of origin, expiry date, and usage instructions. Imported products without Arabic labels have not been legally cleared.
- Recalls: The MOC can order product recalls if a safety defect is found post-sale — recall notices are published on the MOC website and app.
- Joint liability: Manufacturers, importers, and retailers are all jointly liable for defective products that cause harm.
The SABER system is Saudi-specific — other Gulf states have their own conformity systems, but SABER's pre-clearance requirement is particularly strict.
When does it apply?
- You bought a product that is defective, dangerous, or does not match its description.
- A product caused injury or property damage.
- A product is missing Arabic labelling or required safety information.
What to Do If You Bought an Unsafe or Defective Product in Saudi Arabia
- Stop using the product if it appears unsafe and keep it as evidence.
- File a complaint with the Ministry of Commerce through the MOC app, by calling 1900, or through the Balagh app for suspected commercial fraud.
- Keep your receipt and any packaging — you will need these for a complaint or return.
- If injured, get medical documentation and consult a lawyer about compensation claims through the courts.
What should you NOT do?
- Do not buy products without Arabic labels — they may not have passed SABER certification or been legally imported.
- Do not throw away defective products before filing a complaint — you need the physical evidence.
- Do not ignore product recalls — check the MOC website and app for active recall notices.
Common Questions
When does it apply — right to product safety & quality?
You bought a product that is defective, dangerous, or does not match its description.A product caused injury or property damage.A product is missing Arabic labelling or required safety information.
What should I do if I bought a product in Saudi Arabia that is unsafe or does not work as advertised?
Stop using the product if it appears unsafe and keep it as evidence.File a complaint with the Ministry of Commerce through the MOC app, by calling 1900, or through the Balagh app for suspected commercial fraud.Keep your receipt and any packaging — you will need these for a complaint or return.If injured, get medical documentation and consult a lawyer about compensation claims through the courts.
What should you NOT do — right to product safety & quality?
Do not buy products without Arabic labels — they may not have passed SABER certification or been legally imported.Do not throw away defective products before filing a complaint — you need the physical evidence.Do not ignore product recalls — check the MOC website and app for active recall notices.