The Saudi Arabian Standards, Metrology, and Quality Organization (SASO) has published SASO 3114:2026 as a new Information, Communication, and Technology (ICT) standard. This standard replaces the previous standard, SASO CITC GEN-002.
SASO 3114:2026, as the new standard, will be implemented gradually until the specified transition period ends in late 2026. Therefore, manufacturers, importers, or distributors need to be aware of this so they can make the necessary adjustments to their products.
Key Considerations for the Implementation of SASO 3114:2026
There are several factors to consider regarding the implementation of the new ICT regulation, SASO 3114:2026. These include covered products, the grace period, mandatory implementation, and the validity period of existing certificates.
Products covered by the new standard
SASO 3114:2026 establishes minimum requirements for six categories of ICT products:
- Mobile Handheld Devices: Cellular mobile phones, smart tablets, and handheld enterprise computers.
- CPE & Gateways: Routers and Customer Premises Equipment (CPE).
- Network Terminals: Optical Network Terminal (ONT) devices.
- Home Access Gateways (HAG): HAG units intended for operator-owned or open-access networks.
- Wi-Fi Distribution Hardware: Wireless access points and Wi-Fi mesh distribution units.
- Other Portable Cellular Devices: Connected wearables and mobile broadband hardware.
This standard falls under ICS classification 33.070.50. Its scope covers Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) equipment within the scope of electrical and electronic products.
Grace Period
CST fully understands that this regulatory change requires a transition period. Therefore, SASO has granted a grace period for the implementation of the updated standards, which will remain in effect until October 31, 2026.
Once the grace period ends, importers and local manufacturers will be prohibited from issuing any certificates of conformity for products covered by this update.
Mandatory Implementation
Mandatory implementation of the new SASO 3114:2026 standard begins one day after the grace period ends, on November 1, 2026. Under this implementation, all newly imported telecommunications products must comply with the latest regulations.
Validity Period of Old Certificates
During the mandatory implementation period, old certificates based on SASO CITC GEN-002 remain valid. These old certificates are still permitted until March 31, 2027. After that date, certificates based on the old standard will no longer be valid.
Impact on Saudi Arabia Type Approval
The new SASO 3114:2026 standard affects Saudi Arabia type approval. Companies whose devices fall within the scope of this standard must review their products before the October 31, 2026, deadline.
Those who still hold certificates based on the SASO CITC GEN-002 standard must plan for the recertification process before March 31, 2027. Using the old certificate without updating it will render the product illegal.
ICT equipment manufacturers and exporters who adapt early on will avoid disruptions to their certification and shipping processes. Partnering with Dimulti will help your products navigate this regulatory transition seamlessly.
Streamline your SASO compliance with Dimulti
To address updates to international regulations, proactive testing and clear compliance management are required. With over 17 years’ expertise in type approval, Dimulti helps telecommunications manufacturers and exporters make a smooth transition to SASO 3114:2026.
Our comprehensive pre-testing services and our Product Management System (PMS) ensure that your technical documentation is fully verified, traceable and compliant with the requirements before being submitted for type approval in Saudi Arabia.
