On 18 March 2026 the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO) formally issued a notice imposing new compliance requirements on all products involving satellite connectivity equipment or satellite internet services.

What has changed

According to the notice, the product scope includes but is not limited to antennas, modems and any accessories that form part of an operating system. Before such products can apply for a Product Certificate of Conformity (PCoC) or a Shipment Certificate of Conformity (SCoC) through the SABER platform, certification bodies must strictly verify that the importer has obtained a valid non-terrestrial network (NTN) service authorisation issued by the Saudi Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST).

SASO said that, to ensure effective implementation, it will conduct random sampling and review of technical files through the SABER platform in order to monitor how certification bodies apply the notice. SASO will take the necessary measures against certification bodies that fail to follow the procedure or carry out strict verification.

Background

The new rule is intended to strengthen Saudi supervision of the satellite communications services sector and ensure that equipment connects lawfully to Saudi non-terrestrial networks. Industry observers note that, with immediate effect, importers and manufacturers of the products concerned should prepare a valid CST-issued NTN service authorisation before submitting a SABER certification application, so that missing documents do not cause delays or refusal.

SASO advises certification bodies and trading partners to follow subsequent updates to the SABER platform closely to ensure that certification processes meet the latest requirements.