Dubai is one of the world’s fastest-growing trade hubs, attracting manufacturers, importers, and distributors from across the globe. If you are planning to sell food, cosmetics, health supplements, or consumer goods in the UAE, Product Registration in Dubai is a mandatory legal requirement. Without proper approval from the relevant authorities, your products cannot be imported, distributed, or sold in the local market.
In this complete 2026 guide, we explain the product registration process in Dubai, required documents, costs, timelines, authority approvals, and compliance requirements to help you launch your products smoothly.
What is Product Registration in Dubai?
Product Registration in Dubai is the process of obtaining official approval from regulatory authorities, such as:
- Dubai Municipality (DM)
- Ministry of Industry & Advanced Technology (MoIAT)
- Emirates Authority for Standardisation
- Dubai Customs
- Ministry of Climate Change & Environment (for food products)
The purpose of product registration is to ensure that goods entering the UAE market comply with:
- Health and safety standards
- Quality control regulations
- Labeling requirements
- UAE conformity assessment standards
Only after successful registration can products be legally imported and sold in Dubai.
Why is Product Registration Mandatory in Dubai?
The UAE government enforces strict regulations to protect consumers and maintain product quality. Failure to complete product registration in Dubai can result in:
- Heavy fines
- Shipment rejection at customs
- Product recalls
- Business license suspension
Therefore, businesses involved in trading, importing, or manufacturing must ensure compliance before market entry.
Types of Products That Require Registration
Not all products follow the same approval process. Here are the main categories that require registration:
1. Cosmetic Product Registration in Dubai
Includes:
- Skincare products
- Makeup products
- Perfumes
- Haircare products
- Personal hygiene items
Cosmetics must be registered through the Dubai Municipality Montaji System.
2. Food Product Registration in Dubai
Includes:
- Packaged food items
- Beverages
- Nutritional supplements
- Frozen and processed foods
Food products must be approved under the Food Import & Re-export System (FIRS).
3. Health Supplements & Herbal Products
These require additional approvals depending on ingredients and claims.
4. Consumer & Regulated Products
Certain electronics, children’s toys, detergents, and regulated goods require conformity certificates from MoIAT.
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Authorities Involved in Product Registration
Understanding the responsible authority is crucial for smooth approval.
Dubai Municipality (DM)
Handles:
- Cosmetic product registration
- Food product approval
- Label compliance
Ministry of Industry & Advanced Technology (MoIAT)
Responsible for:
- UAE conformity assessment
- ECAS certification
- Emirates Quality Mark
Dubai Customs
Ensures:
- Import compliance
- HS code verification
- Clearance documentation
Product Registration Process in Dubai (Step-by-Step 2026)
Here is the updated step-by-step process for Product Registration in Dubai:
Step 1: Obtain a Valid Trade License
You must have:
- A UAE company
- Valid trade license (Trading or Manufacturing activity)
- Import/export code
Without a UAE entity, product registration is not possible.
Step 2: Create an Account on Relevant Portal
Depending on product type:
- Montaji (Cosmetics)
- FIRS (Food products)
- MoIAT system (Regulated goods)
Step 3: Submit Product Details
Provide:
- Product name
- Brand name
- Ingredients list
- Manufacturing country
- Shelf life
- Packaging details
Step 4: Upload Required Documents
Common documents include:
- Trade license copy
- Certificate of Free Sale
- Product label artwork
- Ingredient list
- Laboratory test reports
- Authorization letter from the manufacturer
Step 5: Pay Government Fees
Fees vary depending on the category.
Step 6: Technical Review
Authorities review:
- Ingredients compliance
- Label accuracy
- Safety standards
Step 7: Approval & Certificate Issuance
Once approved, a registration certificate is issued and product can be imported.
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Documents Required for Product Registration in Dubai
Although requirements vary, generally you need:
- Valid UAE trade license
- Product label (Arabic + English mandatory)
- Ingredient composition
- Certificate of Free Sale (attested)
- GMP certificate (if required)
- Laboratory analysis report
- Product images
- Authorization letter from manufacturer
For food products, nutritional information and halal compliance may also be required.
Labelling Requirements in Dubai
One of the main reasons for rejection is incorrect labelling.
Mandatory Label Information:
- Product name
- Brand name
- Country of origin
- Manufacturing & expiry date
- Net weight/volume
- Ingredients list
- Storage instructions
- Barcode
- Arabic translation
Improper labelling can delay product registration in Dubai.
Cost of Product Registration in Dubai (2026)
The cost depends on product category and approval type.
Cosmetic Product Registration
Approximate government fees: AED 230 – AED 500 per product
Food Product Registration
Approximate fees: AED 300 – AED 1,000 per product
ECAS Certification
Starts from AED 5,000 depending on product type
Additional costs may include:
- Laboratory testing
- Document attestation
- Consultancy fees
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Timeline for Product Registration
The approval timeline depends on product complexity:
- Cosmetics: 5–10 working days
- Food products: 7–15 working days
- Regulated products (ECAS): 2–4 weeks
Incomplete documents may extend the timeline.
Benefits of Product Registration in Dubai
Completing Product Registration in Dubai provides:
- Legal compliance
- Faster customs clearance
- Brand credibility
- Market access across the UAE
- Consumer trust
- Avoidance of penalties
Registered products gain a competitive advantage in retail markets.
Can Foreign Companies Register Products in Dubai?
Foreign manufacturers cannot directly register products without:
- A local UAE distributor
- A trading company in Dubai
- Appointed authorized representative
Many international brands partner with UAE distributors for compliance management.
Product Registration vs Product Approval: What’s the Difference?
- Product Registration: Official listing of the product in government system
- Product Approval: Technical clearance after inspection
Both steps are essential for market entry.
In conclusion, product registration in dubai is an important step for businesses planning to sell food, cosmetics, health supplements, or regulated goods in the UAE market. The process ensures product safety, consumer protection, and regulatory compliance.
With Dubai’s strong trade infrastructure and global connectivity, registering your product correctly opens doors to one of the most profitable markets in the Middle East.
By understanding the requirements, preparing accurate documentation, and following the proper procedures, businesses can complete product registration smoothly and start trading legally in 2026.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes. Most regulated products require registration before import and sale.
Typically between 5 to 15 working days, depending on category.
No. Customs clearance requires valid approval.
Yes, Arabic labelling is mandatory under UAE law.
You must correct the issue and resubmit for approval.