SFDA Import Registration Guide | Saudi Food Registration

How to Register Imported Food Products with the SFDA in Saudi Arabia

Importing food into Saudi Arabia is a major business opportunity—but it also comes with strict regulatory obligations.

The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) has outlined a detailed food product registration system to ensure safety, transparency, and consumer protection.

In this blog, we break down how to successfully register imported food products, including required documents, platforms like FIRS, common mistakes, and how Saudi Food Registration supports businesses in meeting all requirements efficiently.

Who Needs to Register Imported Food Products?

Any company looking to import packaged or bulk food into Saudi Arabia must register their products through SFDA. This includes:

• International manufacturers and exporters

• Local Saudi importers and distributors

• Customs clearance brokers acting on behalf of clients

Step-by-Step: How to Register Food Imports with SFDA

1. Register Your Company in the FIRS Portal

Before importing, businesses must enroll in the Food Import and Registration System (FIRS), SFDA’s official electronic platform.

• Create an account on SFDA’s FIRS

• Submit CR (Commercial Registration), tax ID, and contact info

• Await verification and activation

2. Prepare the Product File

Each imported product must be registered with complete technical documentation, including:

• Product composition & formula

• Label artwork (must include Arabic)

• Manufacturer's information

• Country of origin

• Certificates of analysis

• Halal certification (if applicable)

• Shelf-life and storage conditions

3. Submit Your Registration Application

Once your company and product files are ready, submit your application via FIRS:

• Choose the relevant product category

• Upload documentation and labeling files

• Pay SFDA registration fees

• Track status in the portal

4. Laboratory Testing (If Required)

SFDA may request lab testing for specific product categories. Tests must be done through SFDA-accredited labs.

Testing may include:

• Microbiological screening

• Nutritional analysis

• Chemical and contaminant testing

SFDA Labeling & Packaging Rules for Imports

All imported food must comply with strict labeling guidelines:

• Arabic labeling is mandatory

• Must include production & expiry dates (Hijri & Gregorian)

• Nutritional facts table following GSO standards

• Allergen disclosure

• Manufacturer and importer names

• Halal logo if applicable

Failure to meet any of these can lead to border rejections and product recalls.

How Long Does SFDA Registration Take?

• Average registration timeline: 3–6 weeks

• If lab testing is required: add 1–2 more weeks

• Delays occur due to missing or incorrect documents, or translation issues

Cost of Import Product Registration in Saudi Arabia

• SFDA registration fee: SAR 1,000–3,000 per product

• Translation & labeling fees: SAR 1,500–4,000

• Lab testing (if needed): SAR 2,000–6,000

• Optional consultant support: varies by case complexity

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Submitting incomplete documentation

• Using non-compliant or non-Arabic labels

• Not aligning your product name with GSO food codes

• Skipping Halal certification when needed

• Relying on unverified testing labs

How Saudi Food Registration Can Help

Our team of regulatory consultants helps you avoid delays, fines, or shipment rejections by offering:

• Product file preparation & documentation

• Label review & compliance translation

• FIRS registration support

• Coordination with SFDA-approved labs

• End-to-end consulting for hassle-free imports

Need expert support?
Contact us today or use the chatbot on the bottom right corner of the page.

Related Blogs You Might Like:

• Food Registration Cost & Timeline – Understand the total investment and timeline required for food product approval in Saudi Arabia.

• Labeling & Compliance in Saudi Arabia – Ensure your imported product labels meet SFDA and GSO standards.

• Product Testing & Certification for SFDA Approval – Find out which products require lab testing and how to prepare for it.

• Learn more about the SFDA Additive Approval Process for safe and legal use of food additives in Saudi Arabia.

Registering imported food products in Saudi Arabia can be complex, but with the right support, it’s completely manageable.

Following SFDA’s guidelines closely and ensuring complete documentation is the key to smooth approval and market entry.

Let Saudi Food Registration guide you through the process from start to finish.

Explore Further More