United Arab Emirates
Access the GCC's gateway market with ECAS certification, TDRA approvals, and comprehensive regulatory compliance for the UAE's dynamic economy.
Key Requirements Overview
ECAS
Mandatory conformity assessment scheme
MOCCAE
Environmental & agricultural products
G-Mark
Gulf Conformity Mark for Toys & Electricals
Dubai Municipality
Building materials & consumer safety
EQM
Emirates Quality Mark
EESL
Energy efficiency labeling
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United Arab Emirates The GCC's gateway market
The United Arab Emirates is the GCC's gateway market and a global business hub connecting East and West. With world-class infrastructure, business-friendly policies, and a highly diverse consumer base, the UAE presents exceptional opportunities for international businesses. The country's modern regulatory framework, including the digitalized ECAS system, facilitates efficient market access while ensuring product safety and quality.
Market Advantages
Regulatory Framework
The Emirates Authority for Standardization and Metrology (ESMA) oversees product standards and the Emirates Conformity Assessment Scheme (ECAS).
Launched in 2019, ECAS has streamlined the conformity assessment process with digital applications and acceptance of international test reports. Sector-specific authorities regulate telecommunications (TDRA), health products (MOHAP), and food safety.
Quick Facts
- Official Language
- Arabic (English widely used)
- Currency
- UAE Dirham (AED)
- Main Standards Body
- ESMA
- Key Authorities
- ESMA, TDRA, MOHAP, MOCCAE, MOIAT, Dubai Municipality
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Contact UsKey UAE regulations & platforms
Understanding the regulatory landscape for market entry and compliance
ECAS
Mandatory conformity program requiring products to be tested and certified to UAE technical standards before import or sale. Certificates are valid for one year and enable customs clearance.
UAE TDRA Type Approval
Telecommunications and radio-enabled devices must be tested, registered, and certified before sale in the UAE. Approved products carry a TDRA conformity mark, with certificates valid for three years.
MOHAP
Oversees registration and approval of medicines, medical devices, and healthcare goods. Importers must submit product dossiers and safety data to obtain registration certificates valid for up to five years.
MOCCAE
Regulates environmental, agricultural, veterinary, feed, fertilizer, pet food, and pesticide products. Issues safety certificates and permits ensuring products meet environmental and health standards.
G-Mark
Gulf Conformity Mark required across GCC states showing compliance with technical regulations for safety, health, and environment. Mandatory for electrical equipment, appliances, and toys, displayed with a QR code tracking symbol.
Dubai Municipality
Requires building materials, food, cosmetics, paints, adhesives, and detergents to be tested and certified before sale. Certified products receive a Conformity Certificate/Mark showing compliance with Dubai regulations.
EQM
UAE national quality conformity mark showing products meet relevant standards and are made by manufacturers with effective quality management systems. Can be mandatory or voluntary depending on product category.
EESL
Mandates energy performance labels with star ratings for appliances including ACs, refrigerators, washers, water heaters, and lighting. Water efficiency labels also required for applicable products.
Required documentation for UAE compliance
Essential documents needed for ECAS certification and market access
ECAS Certificate of Conformity Documents
Required for ECAS certificate application:
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Test ReportsFrom ILAC MRA accredited laboratory
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Product SpecificationsTechnical specifications, photos, and ratings
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Commercial DocumentsInvoice, packing list, shipment details
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Arabic LabelsProduct labels and warnings in Arabic
TDRA Type Approval Documents
Required for telecommunications equipment:
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EMC/Radio Test ReportsTesting to ETSI/ITU standards
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SAR Test ReportFor devices used near the body
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Technical DocumentationRadio parameters and specifications
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Supplier RegistrationTDRA portal registration required
The requirements listed here are high-level and may not be exhaustive
For full requirements, and requirements for other programs, please contact us.
Recent regulatory updates
Latest changes and important announcements from UAE regulators
ECAS Digital Portal Expansion
ECAS has expanded digital capabilities with improved online portal, mobile app for certificate tracking, and integration with UAE Customs. Processing times reduced to 3-5 business days for many products.
TDRA Type Approval Modernization
TDRA launched updated type approval system with streamlined applications, enhanced online portal, and faster review timelines (30-45 days). New cybersecurity requirements introduced for IoT devices.
Energy Efficiency Labeling
New energy efficiency and labeling requirements for appliances including air conditioners, refrigerators, and washing machines. Star rating system implementation aligned with GSO regulations.
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- ECAS certification and registration
- Testing with accredited laboratories
- Customs clearance support