The UAE is one of the fastest growing cosmetic markets in the world — attracting global brands and local manufacturers alike. However, before any cosmetic product can be legally sold in the UAE, it must be registered and approved by the relevant regulatory authorities.
Navigating the UAE cosmetic registration process can be complex, time-consuming, and costly if not done correctly. At CorpBridge, we have guided numerous cosmetic brands through the registration process from start to finish. In this guide, we explain exactly what is required.
UAE Cosmetic Regulatory Framework
Cosmetic products in the UAE are regulated by several authorities depending on the emirate and type of product:
— ESMA (Emirates Authority for Standardisation & Metrology) — Federal authority responsible for cosmetic standards
— Dubai Municipality — Regulates cosmetic products sold in Dubai
— SFDA (Saudi Food and Drug Authority) — Required for products exported to Saudi Arabia via the Ghad system
— GCC Cosmetic Notification Portal (CNP) — For GCC-wide registration
What Products Require Registration?
All cosmetic products sold in the UAE require registration, including:
— Skincare products (creams, lotions, serums)
— Hair care products (shampoos, conditioners, hair dyes)
— Makeup and colour cosmetics
— Perfumes and fragrances
— Oral hygiene products (toothpaste, mouthwash)
— Sun care products
— Baby cosmetic products
— Deodorants and antiperspirants
Key Registration Requirements
To register a cosmetic product in the UAE, you will typically need:
- Product Information
— Full product name and description
— Complete list of ingredients (INCI format)
— Product formulation and manufacturing details
— Intended use and target population - Safety Documentation
— Cosmetic Product Safety Report (CPSR)
— Safety Data File (SDF)
— Stability testing data
— Microbiological testing results
— Challenge testing (where applicable) - Labelling Requirements
— Labels must comply with UAE.S GSO 1943 standard
— Arabic language required on all labels
— Ingredients listed in INCI format
— Manufacturing and expiry dates clearly stated
— Country of origin clearly stated
— Net content in metric units - Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP)
— Manufacturing facility must comply with ISO 22716 (Cosmetic GMP)
— GMP certificate or audit report required - Prohibited & Restricted Substances
— Formulation must comply with UAE and GCC prohibited substances list
— No prohibited colorants, preservatives, or UV filters
Common Mistakes in Cosmetic Registration
- Incomplete documentation — missing certificates or test reports delay registration significantly
- Label non-compliance — incorrect language, missing information, or wrong format
- Prohibited ingredients — formulations containing substances banned in UAE/GCC
- Incorrect product classification — different products have different requirements
- Expired certificates — GMP certificates and test reports must be current
How Long Does Registration Take?
Registration timelines vary depending on the authority and completeness of your documentation:
— Dubai Municipality: 2-4 weeks (complete documentation)
— ESMA: 4-8 weeks
— SFDA Ghad (Saudi): 4-12 weeks
— GCC CNP: 4-8 weeks per country
How CorpBridge Can Help
CorpBridge provides complete cosmetic registration services across the UAE and GCC — from initial document preparation to final approval.
Our services include:
— Full document preparation and review
— Ingredient compliance screening
— Label review and compliance assessment
— Safety Data File (SDF) preparation support
— Dubai Municipality, ESMA & SFDA registration management
— GCC CNP registration coordination
— Renewal and amendment of existing registrations
Whether you are a new brand entering the UAE market or an established company needing to renew registrations, CorpBridge is your trusted regulatory partner.
Contact CorpBridge today for a free cosmetic registration consultation.