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CST Type Approval for Saudi Arabia

Mandatory certification for telecommunications and IT devices entering Saudi Arabia. We streamline your CST type approval process through the SABER-integrated certification system.

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Why Choose SANTIQ

CST Expertise

Specialists in telecommunications and IT device certification

SABER Integration

Seamless certification through SABER platform

Testing Coordination

Connect with accredited labs for required testing

End-to-End Support

Complete application and documentation management

Understanding CST Type Approval

What is CST Type Approval?

The SASO–CST Technical Regulation for Communications and Information Technology Devices sets out the mandatory compliance requirements for placing communications and IT equipment on the Saudi Arabian market.

Issued by the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO) in coordination with the Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST), the regulation ensures that products entering the Kingdom meet safety, quality, and telecommunications requirements.

Purpose of the Regulation

  • Ensure the safety of users and public networks
  • Control electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) and interference
  • Regulate the use of radio spectrum
  • Protect national telecommunications infrastructure
  • Ensure interoperability with Saudi communication networks

Key Compliance Requirements

Safety & EMC Standards

Products must meet applicable Saudi technical standards for safety, EMC, and radio performance

Radio Frequency Management

Demonstrate controlled and efficient use of radio frequencies

Interference Prevention

Avoid harmful interference with other devices or networks

Network Compatibility

Be safe for use by consumers and compatible with public infrastructure

Product Coverage

Products Requiring CST Type Approval

The regulation applies to a wide range of communications and IT devices

Wireless Equipment

  • • WiFi devices
  • • Bluetooth equipment
  • • Wireless routers
  • • Access points
  • • Wireless communication devices

Telecommunications

  • • Mobile phones
  • • Tablets with cellular
  • • Telecommunications terminal equipment
  • • Radio equipment

Network Devices

  • • IT devices connected to communication networks
  • • Network equipment
  • • Devices using radio frequency technologies

IoT Devices

  • • Smart home devices
  • • Connected IoT equipment
  • • Devices with wireless technologies

Scope

Any product that connects directly or indirectly to public telecommunications networks in Saudi Arabia may fall under this regulation. This applies to both locally manufactured and imported products and is enforced at customs and through market surveillance activities.

Certification Process

How CST Type Approval Works

CST approval is now integrated into the SABER platform for streamlined certification

1

Product Testing

Have your product tested by accredited laboratories for safety, EMC, and radio performance according to Saudi and international standards.

Required Testing:

  • • Safety testing to applicable IEC standards
  • • Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) testing
  • • Radio frequency (RF) testing
  • • Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) testing (for devices near the body)
2

Documentation Preparation

Compile all required technical documentation and compliance evidence.

Technical Documents

  • • Test reports from accredited labs
  • • Technical specifications
  • • User manuals (Arabic)
  • • Product photos and labels

Compliance Documents

  • • Manufacturer's declaration of conformity
  • • Commercial registration documents
  • • Manufacturing certifications
  • • Risk assessment documentation
3

SABER Application

CST approval is now integrated into the SABER platform. Submit your application for Product Certificate (PCoC) through SABER.

  • • Products requiring CST approval are automatically identified in SABER
  • • Application reviewed by SASO-notified body approved for CST regulation
  • • Technical assessment includes CST-specific requirements
  • • Single streamlined process for both SABER and CST compliance

Certificate Issuance & Market Access

Upon approval, receive your SABER Product Certificate with CST compliance, enabling market entry and customs clearance.

  • • SABER PCoC issued with CST approval
  • • Use certificate to apply for Shipment Certificates (SCoC)
  • • Clear customs with SABER certificates
  • • Products verified compliant at customs and market surveillance

Market Surveillance and Enforcement

Saudi authorities actively monitor compliance to ensure product safety and network integrity

Customs Inspections

All shipments are verified for proper SABER certification including CST compliance at port of entry

Market Surveillance

Ongoing product testing and documentation requests to verify continued compliance

Non-Compliance

Products may be rejected at customs, withdrawn from market, or subject to penalties

Importance of Compliance

  • Avoid shipment delays or customs rejection
  • Ensure uninterrupted access to the Saudi market
  • Protect brand reputation and regulatory standing
  • Meet legal obligations for communications and IT products
FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about CST type approval and certification

Do all IT devices need CST approval?

No, only products that connect directly or indirectly to public telecommunications networks or use radio frequency/wireless technologies require CST approval. Standard wired IT equipment without telecommunications capabilities may not require CST certification.

How is CST approval handled in SABER?

CST approval is now integrated into the SABER platform. Products requiring CST approval are automatically identified and assessed by SASO-notified bodies approved for the regulation as part of your SABER PCoC application.

What testing is required?

Testing requirements include safety testing (IEC standards), electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), radio frequency (RF) performance, and for devices near the body, Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) testing.

How long does the process take?

With complete testing and documentation, the SABER application including CST assessment can typically be processed within days to weeks, depending on product complexity and documentation completeness.

Can I use international test reports?

Yes, test reports from internationally accredited laboratories (ILAC MRA) that cover the required standards can be used. Ensure reports address Saudi-specific requirements and national variations.

Is CST different from CITC?

CST (Communications, Space and Technology Commission) is the successor organization to CITC (Communications and Information Technology Commission). The requirements are now handled through the SASO-CST regulation via SABER.

Ready to Get CST Type Approval?

Our CST specialists will guide you through the entire certification process, from testing to SABER integration and market access.

  • Complete testing coordination with accredited labs
  • SABER-integrated CST approval process
  • End-to-end certification management
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What You'll Get

Free Consultation

Expert review of your products and requirements

Detailed Quote

Transparent pricing with no hidden fees

Implementation Roadmap

Clear timeline and next steps