Regulatory Update: Saudi Arabia (SASO)

The Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO) has officially announced the replacement of the previous standard specification (referred to in Annex No. 1 of the Technical Regulation for Communications and Information Technology Devices under No. SASO CITC GEN-002) with the newly updated standard: SASO 3114:2026.

1. Scope of the New Standard

The updated standard, titled "Requirements for Specific ICT Equipment," specifies the minimum compliance and safety requirements for the following product categories:

• Mobile Phones

• Tablets and Mobile Computers

• Routers and Customer Premises Equipment (CPE)

• Other Cellular-enabled Devices

• ONT (Optical Network Terminal) and HAG (Home Access Gateway), intended to be used either for carrier-owned or open-access networks

• Wi-Fi Distribution devices

2. Enforcement Dates

To ensure a smooth transition, SASO has outlined a phased implementation timeline for Conformity Assessment Bodies (CBs) and suppliers:

1. Grace Period Ends - October 31, 2026

2. Mandatory Enforcement (New Certificates) - No Certificates of Conformity (CoC) may be issued unless they meet the updated requirements - November 1, 2026

3. Cancellation of Legacy Certificates - Existing, valid Certificates of Conformity and Shipment Certificates issued under the old standard (SASO CITC GEN-002) will be discontinued by - March 31, 2027 (at the latest)

Manufacturers and exporters handling affected ICT equipment destined for the Saudi Arabian market should immediately review their technical files against SASO 3114:2026 to update their certifications before the end of the grace period.