To import, grow, produce, or sell food in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), including Dubai, it is necessary to do food and Beverage products registration and label assessment with the Dubai Municipality. The Dubai municipality regulates the quality of food products in Dubai to keep safe the citizen.
Dubai boasts a thriving market for food products due to its unique geographical conditions. The city witnesses rapid population growth driven by the influx of foreigners. Consequently, Dubai becomes an attractive destination for food product importation. The government of Dubai is dedicated to ensuring its citizens and expatriates enjoy a high standard of living.
To maintain quality standards, there exists a stringent food product registration procedure in Dubai, similar to other product types. This rigorous process aims to guarantee that only the finest food products, free from any harmful effects, are allowed in Dubai. Through food product registration, companies gain permission to import, manufacture, distribute in the local market, and even re-export products to other countries. This comprehensive procedure facilitates seamless trade for traders and merchants, providing them with favorable business opportunities.
Food Product Registration refers to the procedure of providing product information through the Dubai Municipality portal. The Dubai Municipality carefully examines the details mentioned on the product label to ensure compliance with their guidelines.
Once the product meets the required guidelines, it receives approval. The process of food product registration in Dubai is overseen by the Dubai Municipality, which plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and quality of food items available in the market.
The Dubai Municipality also scrutinizes the ingredients of the food item and may request laboratory testing to verify its quality and safety for consumers. This testing typically takes place before the approval to ensure regulatory standards are met. Obtaining a food product registration in Dubai is essential for businesses looking to sell their food products legally and gain consumer trust in the local market.
A food label assessment is a comprehensive evaluation of the label on a food package. This service is designed to ensure that all necessary information is accurately displayed on the product packaging.
The label typically includes key details such as the brand name, product name, list of ingredients, net weight, shelf life, country of origin, storage conditions, manufacturer’s name and address, and nutritional information.
There are significant benefits for traders upon registering their food & beverage items in Dubai. These advantages include:
✅ Access to Lucrative Markets: Beverage and Food product registration enables traders to enter the highly profitable market of Dubai, as well as other Gulf countries. This opens up opportunities for increased sales and business growth.
✅ Manufacturing and Re-export Opportunities: Registered traders gain the privilege to manufacture their food products within Dubai and utilize the benefits of the city to re-export their goods to their desired countries. This provides flexibility and expands their reach in international trade.
✅ Integration with Firs Portal: Dubai’s registration process has been integrated with FIRS, Food Import Request Service. This integration enhances safety measures and increases the value of food registration in Dubai, making it even more attractive for international trade.
✅ Adherence to International Standards: The food registration process in Dubai adheres to international standards. This ensures that merchants can confidently re-export their food products to foreign markets without facing excessive taxes and duties.
✅ Ensure you have a UAE-based trading licence:
To register beverage & food items with the Dubai Municipality, the first requirement is to have a UAE-based company with a food trading or general trading activity licence. This licence enables you to engage in commercial activities related to food products.
✅ Register your company with the Dubai Municipality (DM) Portal:
The next step is to register your company with the Dubai Municipality (DM) Portal. This registration process grants you access to the online services provided by the municipality.
✅ Create an application for food product registration:
Once your company is registered with the DM Portal, you can proceed to create an application for the registration of your food product. This application will require you to provide detailed information about the product, including its ingredients, manufacturing processes, and packaging details.
✅ Submit the application:
After filling out the application form and gathering all the necessary documents, you can apply through the DM Portal. Ensure that all the information provided is accurate and complete. Once the application is submitted, you will need to wait for the response from the Dubai Municipality.
The primary requirement is to register the food product with the Dubai Municipality. The DM registers all food products through its Food Import & Re-export System (FIRS).
You will need to submit various documents to the DM, including your company’s trade licence, contact information (email, telephone, fax), location in Dubai, and the name and mobile number of the company’s representative.
If you are importing food products, additional information and documents are required, such as a packing list, Invoice, an original health certificate from the country of origin, and a Halal certificate from an approved Islamic organisation.
The label of the food product must include important information such as the shelf life, country of origin, storage conditions, and any other relevant details. The label approval process ensures compliance with labelling regulations.
It is important to note that certain items, including alcohol, poppy seeds, and others specified by the authorities, cannot be applied for registration as food products.
During the registration process, a food officer may take a sample of the product for laboratory testing at the food department. This testing is conducted to ensure compliance with quality standards.
The Emirates Authority for Standardization and Metrology (ESMA) also checks the quality of food products. Non-food items, such as health supplements, have a different registration procedure.
Each food product must have a unique name and Barcode for identification and differentiation purposes.
As experienced product registration consultants in Dubai, we understand the complexities involved and are here to assist you every step of the way.
Our team of experts has a deep understanding of the registration process, including the submission of necessary documents, compliance with labelling regulations, and adherence to quality standards. We can provide you with the guidance and support you need to ensure
smooth and successful registration of your food products.
Contact us via info@productregistrationdubai.ae or make a quick call +971 56 720 6337
Registering food products is important because it ensures that they are safe, healthy, and meet specific quality standards. It protects consumers from harmful substances and maintains the reputation of food businesses.
Most food products, such as packaged foods, beverages, and imported goods, need to be registered before they can be sold in the UAE local market. This helps ensure the safety and quality of the food items.
Anyone involved in the production, importation, or distribution of food and beverage items in the UAE, is responsible for registration.
Yes, we can provide support to ensure ongoing compliance with regulations even after you get food approval from Dubai municipality. We can help with label updates, periodic audits, and staying updated on any regulatory changes.
The duration of the food item registration process can vary, but it usually takes 7 days. It depends on factors such as the complexity of the product and the completeness of the required documentation.
