Saudi Arabia Cosmetic Regulation

Saudi Arabia has established a comprehensive regulatory framework for cosmetic products overseen by the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA). Cosmetics sold in Saudi Arabia are required to comply with the applicable Gulf standards, primarily GSO 1943, GSO 2528, and GSO 2020. Before placing cosmetics on the market, companies shall notify their products with the SFDA through the Unified Electronic System (GHAD) and obtain the necessary licenses. In addition, product information shall be submitted via the Faseh Cosmetic Products in the Electronic Clearance (FASEH) System to obtain a Certificate of Conformity (CoC) before the consignment arrives at the port of entry.

Part 1 Regulatory Framework and Competent Authority

1.1 Main Cosmetic Regulations

The Saudi Arabian cosmetic regulations are comprehensively structured through a series of national laws and technical guidelines, as outlined in the table below.

1.2 Competent Authority

Cosmetic products in Saudi Arabia are primarily overseen by the following competent authorities.

• The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC): The GCC is the leading political and economic organization in the Gulf region, comprising Saudi Arabia, UAE, Oman, Bahrain, Qatar, and Kuwait.

• The GCC Standardization Organization (GSO): GSO works to harmonize standards across member states and has developed regulations across various sectors, including cosmetics.

• The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA): SFDA serves as the primary regulatory body for the cosmetics industry in Saudi Arabia, overseeing both pre-market notification and post-market surveillance.

Part 2 Definitions

According to the Cosmetic Law, cosmetics are defined as any product containing one or more substances that is intended for external use, including skin, hair, nails, lips, the external parts of the genitals, teeth, or membranes lining the oral cavity, for cleansing, perfuming, caring, beautifying, and protection purposes, or for changing and improving body odor.

Part 3 Premarket Approval

3.1 Cosmetic Notification

According to the Cosmetic Law, a cosmetic product may not be imported or circulated in Saudi Arabia unless it is notified (listed) with the SFDA and a listing certificate is obtained. Cosmetic products shall be notified in the SFDA’s Unified Electronic System (GHAD), an electronic platform that includes several services that facilitate users in submitting and tracking their requests through a single system and paying the required fees.

During the notification process, the notifier assumes responsibilities for providing accurate and correct information and ensuring the product’s compliance with all requirements specified in relevant technical regulations and standard specifications.

The SFDA will make decisions on the notification applications within 15 days following its acceptance. If the application is accepted, a listing certificate will be issued with a validity period of five years. If the application is rejected or no decision has been made regarding it, the SFDA will indicate the reasons.

3.2 Certificate of Conformity

After a cosmetic product is notified, it must be verified for compliance with the relevant applicable standards. A Certificate of Conformity (CoC) must be obtained through the Faseh Cosmetic Products in the Electronic Clearance (FASEH) System before the product can pass customs smoothly.

The FASEH system, provided by SFDA, is an electronic platform that enables importers to submit a release request for food and drug products, medical devices, cosmetics, and imported fodder, and enables the conformity authorities to inspect the products and issue a CoC with the consignment.

Products without a valid CoC may be rejected at the border. For more information on cosmetic clearance procedures in Saudi Arabia, please refer to the Conditions of Cosmetic Products Clearance and Raw Materials Used in their Manufacturing.

Part 4 Ingredient Requirements

According to Article 6 of the Cosmetic Law, the SFDA shall determine and publish on its website the substances that are illegal or restricted for use in cosmetic products. These include:

• List of prohibited substances in cosmetic products

• List of restricted substances in cosmetic products

• List of colorants allowed in cosmetic products

• List of preservatives allowed in cosmetic products

• List of UV filters allowed in cosmetic products

Part 5 Labeling & Claiming Requirements

5.1 Cosmetic Labeling

Cosmetic labeling in Saudi Arabia is subject to strict regulations. Cosmetics should be labeled under the Implementing Regulation of the Cosmetic Products Law and GSO 1943.

5.2 Cosmetic Claiming

GSO 2528 sets out the requirements for cosmetic product claims. According to the standard, all claims shall be in line with the following common principles of legal compliance, truthfulness, evidential support, honesty, fairness, and informed decision-making. Claims suggesting medical treatment, such as stopping aging, killing germs, and treating acne, are unacceptable.

Part 6 Halal Requirements

Given the cultural and religious context of Saudi Arabia, the concept of halal is of vital importance. As a result, halal certification has a substantial impact on consumer purchasing behavior in the Saudi Arabian market. In Saudi Arabia, imported food and medicines require halal certification, while it is not legally mandatory for cosmetics. Nevertheless, many manufacturers still pursue halal certification to ensure their products adhere to Islamic principles and appeal to Saudi consumers.