On January 1, 2025, Saudi Arabia officially mandated using USB Type-C charging ports for mobile devices. This decision, announced by the Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST) and the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organisation (SASO), aims to improve user convenience and promote sustainability.
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Improving user experience
The initiative is designed to simplify charging across various electronic devices, including mobile phones, tablets, and headphones.
CST and SASO highlighted that adopting USB Type-C will enhance the user experience and save consumers money.
They estimate that this change will reduce the demand for different charging ports by over 2.2 million units annually and save consumers around SAR 170 million (approximately $45 million) annually.
“This decision aims to improve the user experience in Saudi Arabia, reduce extra costs for consumers, and enhance the quality of tech products,” stated officials from CST and SASO.
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Environmental benefits
This regulation also addresses environmental concerns by significantly reducing electronic waste, which is projected to be nearly 15 tonnes per year.
The first phase includes various devices such as digital cameras, portable gaming consoles, and wireless routers. A second phase will begin on April 1, 2026, extending the mandate to laptops.
The founder of CST emphasised the importance of this initiative in aligning with global sustainability goals while ensuring that consumers benefit from high-quality technology. Saudi Arabia is taking a significant step toward a more eco-friendly future by standardising charging ports.