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If you plan to import or sell cosmetics in Saudi Arabia, obtaining SFDA certification for cosmetics products is not optional it’s mandatory. The regulatory framework enforced by the Saudi Food & Drug Authority ensures that only safe, compliant cosmetics reach the Saudi market. For brand owners, importers, or distributors, understanding the process, requirements, and documentation is crucial to avoid customs delays, rejections, or legal complications.
At J K Management Consultancies, we guide you through the entire SFDA certification journey from documentation to final clearance offering efficient, end-to-end support.
Why SFDA COC Matters for Importers & Exporters
- The SFDA regulates cosmetics in Saudi Arabia to protect consumer health and safety. Cosmetics must comply with the technical regulations for cosmetics and personal care products (e.g. GSO 1943/2021 and related regulations).
- Imported cosmetics (and perfumery products) require a Certificate of Conformity (CoC) before customs clearance.
- Cosmetics must be registered / notified via SFDA’s electronic portal , linking the product, manufacturer, and importer.
- Labeling, ingredients, packaging, and safety data must meet SFDA requirements including bilingual labels (Arabic & English), INCI ingredient lists, approved preservatives/colourants/UV-filters, and absence of banned substances.
Failure to comply may lead to shipment rejection, confiscation, product recall, bans and reputation damage.
What Products Are Covered
Any product intended for external use skin, hair, nails, lips, mucous membranes (mouth) classified as cosmetics or personal care is regulated under SFDA’s cosmetics law.
This includes typical categories like creams, shampoos, makeup, lotions, perfumes, etc. Composite products (like a makeup palette) are subject to specific documentation rules.
Key Requirements & Documentation
To successfully obtain SFDA certification for cosmetics products, the following requirements must be met:
- The importer (or local representative) must have a valid commercial registration in Saudi Arabia
- Cosmetic products must be notified / registered on the GHAD / eCosma platform, with full product information.
- A complete Product Information File (PIF) including formulation, full ingredient list (with percentages and INCI names), safety data, manufacturing details, etc.
- Labeling and packaging compliance: labels in Arabic and English; clear ingredient listing; country of origin; manufacturer/brand name; barcode; usage instructions; expiry/production dates; correct marketing claims (no misleading or medicinal-type claims).
- Laboratory testing if required
- For imported consignments: a conformity request must be submitted on the FASEH platform,
Common Pitfalls & What to Watch For
Submitting incomplete dossiers (missing ingredient percentages, missing label art, missing manufacturing license) leads to rejection or delays.
Using banned substances (or preservatives, colourants, filters not approved by SFDA).
Incorrect labeling missing Arabic, missing barcode, missing expiry or manufacturing date, or false / medicinal-type claims.
Skipping testing for colour cosmetics or high-risk products.
Trying to bypass FASEH/CoC — all cosmetics consignments require a Certificate of Conformity for customs clearance.
Not having a Saudi-based importer/representative — foreign entities cannot directly complete registration.
How J K Can Help?
At J K Management Consultancies, we specialize in assisting international brands, importers, and distributors to navigate the SFDA certification process smoothly and efficiently. Our service offering includes:
Local representation & consultancy
Full dossier preparation
Submission & follow-up on SFDA portals
Coordination with accredited conformity bodies and testing labs
Labeling & claims compliance check
Post-market surveillance support
By partnering with J K Management Consultancies, you reduce the risk, time and complexity involved enabling faster market entry, smoother clearance, and compliant distribution in Saudi Arabia.
Conclusion
Obtaining SFDA certification for cosmetics products is a must-have for any cosmetic brand or importer targeting the Saudi market. The process though detailed ensures product safety, consumer protection, and compliance with strict regulatory standards.
For many foreign exporters or brands, managing every step from dossier preparation to conformity request and testing can be complex, time-consuming, and fraught with compliance risk. That’s where J K Management Consultancies adds value: as your trusted partner, we handle the regulatory burden, help you meet all SFDA requirements, and pave the way for seamless import and distribution.
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