Importing Regulated Products Into the UAE: ECAS Certificates of Conformity Explained
Short answer
Regulated products imported into or sold in the UAE, such as toys, cosmetics and perfumes, detergents, lighting and many electrical goods, need a Certificate of Conformity under the Emirates Conformity Assessment Scheme (ECAS), run by the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT). The certificate is usually valid for one year and issued in the name of the UAE importer. Check whether your product is on MoIAT's regulated list before production starts.
Key takeaways
- ✓ECAS is mandatory for products on MoIAT's regulated list.
- ✓You need test reports from an accredited laboratory.
- ✓The certificate is linked to the UAE importer and usually valid for one year.
- ✓The Emirates Quality Mark (EQM) is a separate scheme, mandatory only for some products.
Which products need ECAS?
- Toys and children's products
- Cosmetics, perfumes and personal care products
- Detergents and certain chemical products
- Lighting and many electrical and electronic products
- Other categories on MoIAT's regulated products list
The list changes over time, so always check MoIAT's current regulated products list for your exact product.
What does the process involve?
- Confirm the technical regulation that applies to your product.
- Obtain test reports from an accredited laboratory, often arranged with the factory.
- Prepare labels and documents in line with UAE requirements.
- Apply through MoIAT's platform or an approved notified body, with your trade licence.
- Receive the Certificate of Conformity before goods are released.
Want your product made, inspected and delivered without the risk?
Husbar China Line verifies factories, negotiates for you, arranges on-site inspection before you pay the balance, and manages freight to the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan.
Request a China Line consultationWhat does it cost?
MoIAT lists government fees for document review and certificate issuance, and laboratory testing is charged separately. Costs vary by product and testing needs, so include certification in your landed-cost model from the start. See our landed cost guide.
Husbar China Line checks the approvals your product needs during feasibility and coordinates test reports and documents with the factory, so goods are not held at customs. See China Line and import duty and VAT from China to the UAE.
Frequently asked questions
Is ECAS the same as EQM?+
No. ECAS is the mandatory conformity scheme for regulated products. The Emirates Quality Mark is a separate scheme, mandatory for some products and voluntary for others.
Can the Chinese factory get the ECAS certificate for me?+
The factory usually provides test reports, but the certificate is linked to the UAE importer, so you or your importer of record apply.
How long is an ECAS certificate valid?+
Usually one year, after which it must be renewed.
Sources
- Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT): Issue Conformity Certificates for Regulated Products (ECAS).
- MoIAT notified bodies' guidance on ECAS and EQM schemes.
Team Husbar
Husbar Editorial
Team Husbar is the strategy, psychology and research team at Husbar, a psychology-led growth agency headquartered in Dubai. Together we have worked with 100+ brands over 10+ years.
Want your product made, inspected and delivered without the risk?
Husbar China Line verifies factories, negotiates for you, arranges on-site inspection before you pay the balance, and manages freight to the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan.
Request a China Line consultation
