In general, cosmetic products are preparations or substances intended to be applied to the different external parts of the human body such as epidermis, nails, lips, hair system, etc. or the teeth and mucous layers in the oral cavity; mainly or exclusively for cleaning, perfume, changing appearance or correcting body odors as well as protecting them or maintaining their good aesthetic value.

Some examples of cosmetic products include:

– Creams, lotions, oils for the skin (hands, face, feet, etc.)
– Makeup powders, hygienic powders, etc
– Toilet soaps, deodorant soaps, etc
– Perfumes, Eau de cologne, etc
– Haircare products (cleansing shampoos, setting products, hair tints, bleaches, etc)
– Eye decorative cosmetic products (Eye shadow, mascara, lid pencils, cream, etc)
– Shaving products (creams, lotions, foams)
– Products for external intimate hygiene
– Sunbathing products etc

Cosmetics market trends and opportunities in Dubai

The UAE’s cosmetic industry is rapidly growing, majorly driven by factors like the young population and tourism as well as UAE’s approach to becoming a local hub for the beauty and skincare industry.

The United Arab Emirates cosmetic products market is projected to register a CAGR of 4.3% during the forecast period (2020-2025).

Companies are increasing their investments in R&D and marketing and expanding their distribution channels to maintain their positions in the market and offer innovative products with a focus on quality.
Source: UAE Cosmetic Products Market 2020-2025 | UAE Cosmetic Products Market 2022-2027

Who are the government bodies related to Cosmetic registration/regulators?

Cosmetics can be regulated by 3 authorities in UAE:
1. Dubai Municipality
2. Ministry of industry and Advanced Technology (MOIAT)
3. or Ministry of Health & Prevention (MOHAP)
depending on the active ingredient, its concentration, product purpose, and in which emirate you would like to place your product.

Dubai Municipality(DM) – Montaji

• Montaji is an online platform managed by the Dubai Municipality for the registration and regulation of consumer products including cosmetics and the personal care products in the UAE. The platform is designed to ensure that all consumer products meet the safety and quality standards set by Dubai Municipality before they can be sold in Dubai.

Steps to obtain the DM Registration Certificate

• Register your company in DM
• Login to your account and create new application
• Upload required documents
• Pay due fees
• Wait for response from DM (whether approved, incomplete or rejected.)

What are the documents required?

1. Free sale certificate
2. Certificate of analysis
3. Product artwork/ label
4. Ingredient report
5. GMP
6. UAE Trade license with relevant activity

Registration timeframe: 22-30 working days

Certificate validity: 5 years

Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology – Conformity Certificate

On the federal level, the Ministry of industry and Advanced Technology(MOIAT) is the competent authority for regulating cosmetics under the Emirates Conformity Assessment Scheme. This certification allows sale and distribution of fragrances in the whole of UAE except for the emirate of Dubai which requires another registration certificate.

Obtaining a CoC is important:
– To trade, sell or import into the UAE
– It provides consumers and other stakeholders added confidence in the efficacy of the product
– It helps regulators to ensure that health, safety, or environmental conditions are met.

Important note:

• Product test report from an accredited laboratory is now mandatory before initiating the ECAS certificate issuance.

How to apply:

1. Register your company on the MOIAT website
2. Select the ECAS service
3. Upload all required documents and information
4. Submit the application
5. Pay the due fees

What are the required documents?

• UAE Trade license/ industrial license
• Product artworks
• Certificate of analysis
• Test report
• GMP
• FSC
• MSDS

Registration timeframe: 7 – 14 working days

Certificate validity: 1 year (to be renewed on a yearly basis)

Steps to set up a cosmetic business in Dubai

 Registration of cosmetic products must be done by a UAE-based company.
The company can be set up in the mainland or free zone. Choosing the right location and holding the right license for your business is crucial to operate legally and support the growth and expansion strategy of the company.

Here are the steps:
1. Prepare the company name, the related business activities, and shares distribution
2. Register Trade name certificate
3. Obtain an initial approval from the DED for Mainland or particular Free zone authority
4. Acquire a commercial or retail EJARI/rent contract
5. Submit the documents to DED
6. Payment for license
7. Issuance of license
8. Obtain necessary approvals from external authority
9. Premise inspections to meet necessary specifications

*Department of Economic Development (DED)

Bizzmosis Group is working with many companies like Fine Group, Fruitful Day, Nextcos, The Cat Vet, P&G, Dubizzle, and many others to register Food Supplements, Face Masks, Hand Gloves, and Food Products, etc. in various government departments.

Our service is not limited to facilitating product registration, we give impartial expert and personalized advice based on UAE company law at a federal level. We untangle the complexity of the many different solutions available and provide clarity on the pros and cons, plus the true cost implications so that our clients can make informed and confident decisions.

To learn more, contact us

📧 hello@bizzmosis.com ☎️ +971 4 568 6522 📞 +971 52 979 8169

👍Follow our blog to stay informed on the latest and most reliable updates from the UAE government. We regularly discuss company incorporation and structuring, visas, product registration, and other topics related to conducting business in UAE.

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