Guide to Product Registration in Dubai

Dubai is a vibrant city that really plays a significant role in the global trade market, which is really hot in the Middle East. However, in order to access this dynamic market, your product must not only meet the quality standards but also comply with the safety requirements. Product registration is a legal step that provides consumer protection and creates trust with customers. Whether you are bringing goods from abroad or producing locally, understanding the process is the key to a trouble-free market entry. This blog will take you step by step through the product registration process in Dubai.

Who Needs to Do Product Registration in Dubai?

Product registration in Dubai is mandatory if you intend to import, produce, distribute, or sell consumer products in Dubai. This condition covers not only local companies but also international businesses. The process is obligatory to make sure that the products comply with the safety and quality standards established by Dubai Municipality.

If you are working with cosmetics, food, health supplements, or household goods, product registration is the fundamental step for your products to be legal in the UAE market. Products that are of non-local origin still have to acquire approval before they can be locally sold.

The requirement applies to:

• Manufacturers in the UAE
• Importers and distributors of foreign products
• Companies looking to sell through retail or e-commerce platforms in Dubai

When you register your products, you are not only meeting the requirements of the local authorities but also providing your customers with the assurance that the products are safe and of good quality.

What Products Require Registration in Dubai?

In Dubai, it is mandatory for all consumer products to be registered with Dubai Municipality before they are allowed to be sold. This applies not only to locally made but also imported goods. The necessity of product registration is to guarantee that the products are safe for use and comply with UAE standards.

These are the principal categories that require registration:

• Cosmetics and personal care products (e.g., creams, shampoos, perfumes)
• Food and beverage items (including packaged foods and drinks)
• Health supplements
• Detergents and disinfectants
• Pet food and animal care products
• Household items (like cleaning agents and air fresheners)

If your product is made for consumers in the UAE, it needs to be registered without any exception, even though it may have been approved in other countries. Products that are not registered cannot be brought, sold, or advertised in Dubai.

Where to Apply for Product Registration in Dubai?

The Dubai Municipality (DM) is the place where you can register your products in Dubai. The procedure is done online through their official platform called Montaji, which is also the platform for registering consumer products such as cosmetics, health supplements, and detergents.

The license has to be for a company based in the UAE. Local companies only have the right to file an application. Foreign businesses, on the other hand, will have to first collaborate with a local distributor who is registered or has opened a local company to be able to apply.

Applications are submitted through:

• Dubai Municipality’s Montaji system (for health-related and cosmetic products)
• Food Safety Department (for food and beverage items)

Dubai Municipality checks your product and its ingredients, as well as labels, to be sure they comply with regulations after you have submitted the application.

Documents Needed for Product Registration in Dubai

For product registration in Dubai, you need to submit documents that specify the safety, ingredients, and the place of origin of the product. These are the documents that you usually require:

• Valid trade license (issued in Dubai/UAE)
• Product label and packaging artwork
• Product sample (if requested)
• Certificate of Free Sale (from the country of origin)
• Ingredients list or product formulation
• Safety Data Sheet (SDS) – mainly for chemicals or cosmetics
• Lab test reports (if applicable)
• Manufacturer’s details and company profile
• Halal certificate (for certain food or cosmetic items, if required)

Note: Additional documents may be requested depending on the product type and category.

Steps to Complete Product Registration in Dubai

Registration of a product in Dubai can be done in a very easy manner by following the steps below, and at the same time making sure the product is in compliance with the safety Standards by the Dubai Municipality for safe import, distribution, and sale in the UAE market.

1. Visit the Dubai Municipality Website

 Start by accessing the official Dubai Municipality portal. Depending on your product type, you’ll use either the Montaji system (for cosmetics, supplements, etc.) or the Food Safety Department platform (for food items).

2. Fill Out the Registration Application Form

Create an account and complete the online registration form with accurate product information. Include details such as product name, category, ingredients, and manufacturer information.

3. Pay the Required Fee

After filling out the application, proceed to pay the applicable registration fee. The amount varies based on the product type and volume of items you wish to register.

4. Submit the Necessary Documents

Upload all required documents, including product labels, certificates, and safety data sheets. Make sure all files are clear, correct, and meet Dubai Municipality’s documentation standards.

5. Application Review by Authorities

Dubai Municipality will carefully review your application. This includes checking ingredients, claims, and labelling for compliance with UAE regulations.

6. Registration Certificate Issued Upon Approval

 If your product meets all necessary criteria, you’ll receive a product registration certificate. This certificate allows you to legally import and sell the product in Dubai and across the UAE.

7. Additional Documents May Be Requested if Needed

 If the Municipality finds any gaps or issues, they may request clarification or extra documents. Once resolved, the registration can proceed without delays.

Note: The product registration certificates have to be renewed from time to time. In case the registered product is changed, you are obliged to inform us of the changes and to provide updated documents or samples if required. Regular quality control is very important, as Dubai Municipality can carry out unannounced product tests for their safety standard compliance.

How SetupMate Helps with Product Registration in Dubai

Navigating product registration rules in Dubai can be complex, especially with changing regulations and category-specific requirements. SetupMate is the one who takes you through every step of the way—from assisting you in preparing the right documents, to submitting your application electronically via Dubai Municipality portals—and our experts guarantee that your request is fully compliant and will be accepted without any delay.

SetupMate is a perfect match for you, whether you’re a startup or a well-established brand, when it comes to going into the UAE market with a clear mind.