Saudi SASO Updates Amusement Ride Standards: VR Devices Now Require Mandatory EMC Testing

On April 10, 2026, the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO) issued the updated SASO 2770:2026 standard, introducing mandatory electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) testing for commercial amusement rides with integrated VR modules. This change directly impacts Chinese VR interactive amusement equipment exporters, requiring them to incorporate EMC pre-compliance solutions during the design phase.

Event Overview

The SASO 2770:2026 standard, released on April 10, 2026, now includes VR-integrated commercial amusement rides under its regulatory scope for the first time. The new requirement mandates local type testing for EMC compliance. This update is part of Saudi Arabia's efforts to ensure the safety and performance of advanced amusement technologies in the market.

Impact on Specific Industries

VR Amusement Equipment Manufacturers

Manufacturers of VR-integrated amusement rides, particularly those exporting to Saudi Arabia, will face increased testing requirements and certification costs. The need for EMC pre-compliance solutions may also affect product design timelines.

Testing and Certification Services

Certification bodies and testing laboratories will see increased demand for EMC testing services specific to VR amusement equipment. Local Saudi testing facilities may experience particularly high demand due to the requirement for local type testing.

Export Trade Companies

Companies specializing in the export of amusement equipment to Saudi Arabia will need to factor in additional testing time and costs when planning shipments and pricing strategies.

Key Considerations and Recommended Actions

Early EMC Compliance Planning

Manufacturers should incorporate EMC considerations at the earliest stages of product design to avoid costly redesigns later in the development process.

Certification Timeline Management

Exporters should account for potentially longer certification timelines when planning product launches or shipments to Saudi Arabia.

Local Testing Partnerships

Companies may benefit from establishing relationships with Saudi-based testing facilities to streamline the certification process.

Industry Perspective

From an industry perspective, this regulatory change signals Saudi Arabia's growing focus on the safety of advanced amusement technologies. While currently limited to EMC requirements, this could indicate future expansion of testing requirements for VR amusement devices. The market impact is likely to be most significant for manufacturers who previously didn't prioritize EMC compliance in their designs.

Conclusion

The SASO 2770:2026 update represents an important development in the regulation of VR amusement technologies. While adding complexity to the export process, it also demonstrates Saudi Arabia's recognition of VR as a significant segment in the amusement industry. Manufacturers and exporters should view this as an opportunity to strengthen their product compliance frameworks for the Saudi market.

Source Information

Primary source: Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO) official announcement, April 10, 2026. Ongoing monitoring of implementation guidelines and potential additional requirements is recommended.