United Arab Emirates

United Arab Emirates

Access the GCC's gateway market with ECAS certification, TDRA approvals, and comprehensive regulatory compliance for the UAE's dynamic economy.

11.0M
Population
$549B
GDP (2025)
28th
Largest 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

Strategic location connecting 3+ billion consumers
World-class infrastructure with major ports and aviation hubs
Over 40 free trade zones
Digitalized compliance through ECAS platform

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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Regulations & Platforms

Key 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.

Documentation

Required documentation for UAE compliance

Essential documents needed for ECAS certification and market access

ECAS Certificate of Conformity Documents

Required for ECAS certificate application:

  • Test Reports
    From ILAC MRA accredited laboratory
  • Product Specifications
    Technical specifications, photos, and ratings
  • Commercial Documents
    Invoice, packing list, shipment details
  • Arabic Labels
    Product labels and warnings in Arabic

TDRA Type Approval Documents

Required for telecommunications equipment:

  • EMC/Radio Test Reports
    Testing to ETSI/ITU standards
  • SAR Test Report
    For devices used near the body
  • Technical Documentation
    Radio parameters and specifications
  • Supplier Registration
    TDRA 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.

Stay Updated

Recent regulatory updates

Latest changes and important announcements from UAE regulators

Enhancement 2024-2025

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.

Update 2023-2024

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.

New Requirement 2024-2025

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.

Stay Updated on United Arab Emirates Regulations

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Ready to Enter the UAE Market?

Get expert guidance on ECAS certification, connect with accredited labs, and streamline your UAE compliance process.

  • ECAS certification and registration
  • Testing with accredited laboratories
  • Customs clearance support