Saudi Arabian Type Approvals
Overview
Type Approval Saudi Arabia (CST) Overview
Type Approval in Saudi Arabia is governed by the Communications, Space & Technology Commission (CST) (formerly known as CITC). It is a mandatory requirement for all radio and telecommunications equipment intended for import or sale in the Kingdom.
1. Regulatory Authority
Name: Communications, Space & Technology Commission (CST).
Role: Manages spectrum, approves devices, and regulates the ICT sector.
Portal: TAMSys (Type Approval Management System) is the online portal where all applications are processed.
Website: cst.gov.sa
2. Scope of Equipment
Approval is mandatory for:
Radio Equipment: Mobile phones, Wi-Fi routers, Bluetooth devices, IoT sensors, Smartwatches.
Short Range Devices (SRD): RFID, NFC, Remote controls, Garage door openers (433 MHz, 315 MHz, etc.).
Automotive: Car radars (77 GHz), Keyless entry systems, Telematics.
Terminal Equipment: Devices connecting to the public network (Fiber ONTs, Modems).
3. Key Process Details
| Feature | Detail |
| In-Country Testing | Not Required. CST accepts foreign test reports (specifically EU/RED standards). |
| Local Representative | Not Required. Foreign manufacturers can register and apply directly on TAMSys. |
| Validity | 2 Years. (Must be renewed before expiration). |
| Lead Time | Typically 2 to 3 weeks (One of the faster processes in the region). |
| Sample Requirement | Rarely. Samples are generally not required unless specifically requested for cellular network testing. |
4. Critical Updates (2024–2025)
USB-C Standardization (Effective Jan 1, 2025):
Rule: All mobile phones, tablets, cameras, headphones, headsets, speakers, keyboards, mice, and portable navigation systems must be equipped with a USB Type-C charging port.
Impact: Devices without USB-C will be rejected during approval or customs clearance.
Laptops: The deadline for laptops is deferred to April 1, 2026.
3G Sunset:
Major operators (STC, Mobily, Zain) have phased out 3G networks. Devices imported into KSA are expected to support 4G (LTE). Devices operating only on 2G/3G are generally rejected.
Wi-Fi 6E & 7:
Saudi Arabia has opened the full 6 GHz band (5925–7125 MHz) for license-exempt use, making it a leading market for Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7 products.
5. Documentation Requirements
Saudi Arabia primarily follows the European (RED) compliance model.
Technical Datasheet: Detailed specs (Frequency, Power, Modulation).
EU Declaration of Conformity (DoC): Signed by the manufacturer.
Test Reports (CE/RED):
RF (Radio Frequency)
EMC (Electromagnetic Compatibility)
Safety (LVD – IEC 62368-1 is the standard)
Health/SAR (For body-worn devices)
Photos: Internal, external, and label placement.
GSMA TAC Letter: Only for cellular devices (phones, tablets, trackers).
6. Labeling Requirements (Gen001)
Mandatory Label: Once approved, the device must carry the CST Type Approval Label (Gen001 Mark).
Format: The label is a specific graphic generated by TAMSys containing the CST logo and a certificate number (e.g.,
TA xxxx-xxxx).Placement: On the product or packaging.
E-Label: Permitted for devices with a screen, provided it is accessible within 3 menu steps.
Overview
Wireless Type Approval Rules: Saudi Arabia (CST)
Saudi Arabia has one of the most advanced and fast-moving regulatory environments in the region. The Communications, Space & Technology Commission (CST) (formerly CITC) sets strict technical rules that often outpace its neighbors.
As of January 2026, the following specific rules apply:
1. The “USB-C” Mandate (Strict Enforcement)
Saudi Arabia has enforced a mandatory transition to USB Type-C charging ports to reduce e-waste. This is critical for 2026 imports.
Stage 1 (Already Active since Jan 1, 2025):
Scope: Mobile phones, tablets, digital cameras, e-readers, game consoles, headphones/earsets, speakers, keyboards, mice, portable navigation systems, and wireless routers.
Rule: These devices must have a USB-C port for wired charging. Proprietary ports (e.g., Lightning, Micro-USB) are banned for import.
Stage 2 (Upcoming – April 1, 2026):
Scope: Laptops.
Action Item: If you are launching a laptop model in Q2 2026, it must support USB-C charging (Power Delivery).
2. Technical & Spectrum Rules
Wi-Fi 6E & Wi-Fi 7 (Full 6 GHz Access):
Unlike Europe or Kuwait (which often limit to the lower 500 MHz), Saudi Arabia has opened the full 6 GHz band (5925–7125 MHz) for license-exempt use.
Impact: This allows devices to use the full potential of Wi-Fi 7, which utilizes extra-wide 320 MHz channels (only possible if the upper 6 GHz band is open).
5G C-Band Filter (The “Satellite” Rule):
Critical Pitfall: For 5G base stations or high-power cellular equipment operating in the 3.5 GHz (C-Band) range, CST strictly enforces out-of-band emission filters.
Why? To protect existing Satellite Earth Stations operating in adjacent bands. If your device lacks this hardware filter, it will fail testing/approval.
Cellular Technology:
3G Sunset: 3G networks are effectively phased out. Devices must support 4G LTE (and increasingly 5G) to be approved.
VoLTE: Voice over LTE is largely mandatory for phones to ensure voice calls work as 2G/3G fades away.
3. Labeling Rules (Gen001)
Once approved, you must apply the regulatory mark. CST is strict about the format.
The Mark: A specific box containing the CST logo and your unique certificate number (e.g.,
TA xxxx-xxxx).E-Labeling: Permitted for devices with an integrated screen (e.g., phones, tablets). The user must be able to access it within 3 steps in the menu (Settings > About > Regulatory).
Packaging: If E-labeled, the mark must still appear on the packaging or user manual.
4. Procedural Rules
Validity: Certificates are valid for 2 years (shorter than Kuwait’s 3 years).
Renewal: Simple paper renewal, but must be done before expiration.
Lead Time: Fast. Typically 2–3 weeks if all EU/RED reports are clean.
Testing: No in-country testing is required. CST accepts ETSI/RED (European) test reports.
5. Import & Customs (SABER Integration)
The “SABER” Link: Saudi Customs uses the SABER platform to verify conformity.
Workflow:
Get CST Type Approval (Radio Check).
Get SASO IECEE or SASO CoC (Safety Check) – if applicable.
Register on SABER to generate the Shipment Certificate (PCoC/SCoC) for customs clearance.
Note: Without the valid CST certificate number linked in the system, the shipment cannot clear SABER.
Overview
In Saudi Arabia, the list of devices requiring Type Approval is determined by the Communications, Space & Technology Commission (CST).
Any device that emits radio frequencies (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Cellular, Radar) or connects to the Public Telecommunication Network generally requires CST approval.
1. Core Regulated Devices (Mandatory Approval)
These devices require a CST Certificate before they can be imported or sold.
Mobile & Cellular Devices
Smartphones & Feature Phones (Must be 4G/LTE minimum; 3G-only is banned).
Tablets & iPads (Cellular models).
Smartwatches (eSIM/Cellular models).
Modems, Routers, and Mi-Fi Hotspots (4G/5G).
Wireless Networking (Wi-Fi 6E & 7 Allowed)
Wireless Routers & Access Points.
Wi-Fi Range Extenders.
Commercial Microwave Links & Bridges.
Short Range Devices (SRD)
Bluetooth: Headphones, Speakers, Mice, Keyboards.
IoT Sensors: Smart home devices (Zigbee, Z-Wave, LoRaWAN).
Remote Controls: Garage openers, Key fobs (433 MHz, 315 MHz).
Microphones: Wireless audio systems.
Automotive & Radar
Radars: 76–77 GHz (Automotive), 24 GHz (Strictly regulated/phasing out).
Telematics: Vehicle tracking units (AVL).
Keys: Smart keys and immobilizers.
2. The “USB-C” Mandate List (Strict Enforcement)
Saudi Arabia has legally mandated USB Type-C ports for specific categories. If your device is on this list and does not have a USB-C charging port, it will be rejected.
Phase 1 (Effective Since Jan 1, 2025):
Mobile Phones
Tablets
Digital Cameras
E-readers
Portable Video Game Consoles
Headphones / Earphones / Headsets
Portable Speakers
Keyboards & Mice
Portable Navigation Systems (GPS)
Wireless Routers
Phase 2 (Effective April 1, 2026):
Laptops (Notebooks)
3. Terminal Equipment (Wired)
Even without a radio, these require approval if they connect to the public network.
Fiber ONTs (Optical Network Terminals).
ADSL/VDSL Modems.
IP Phones & PABX Systems.
4. Exemptions & Grey Areas
Laptops/Desktops (Wi-Fi Only): Historically, computers often relied on the module’s approval. However, under new regulations (GEN002), “Mobile Computers” are explicitly listed.
Best Practice: If the laptop has a SIM slot (WWAN), it definitely needs full device approval. If it is Wi-Fi only, the internal module approval is sometimes sufficient, but many manufacturers now approve the full laptop to ensure smooth customs clearance via SABER.
GPS Receivers: Pure receivers (that do not transmit) generally do not require CST Radio Type Approval. However, they still require SASO (Safety) certification to clear customs.
Printers: Usually exempt from CST unless they have a Wi-Fi/Bluetooth module. If they do, they are regulated.
5. Prohibited / Restricted List
Signal Boosters/Repeaters: Strictly prohibited for import by individuals. Only licensed telecom operators (STC, Mobily, Zain) can import these.
Jamming Devices: Strictly prohibited.
Spyware/Hidden Cameras: Strictly prohibited.
Non-standard Frequencies: Devices operating on military bands or restricted frequencies (e.g., certain high-power long-range radios) will be rejected.
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