How long does product registration in the UAE usually take from submission to approval?

Timing depends on the product category, the completeness of your file, and whether the authority needs clarifications or lab tests. In practice, the “clock” is driven by how quickly you can provide compliant labels, certificates (e.g., Free Sale Certificate where required), and any missing technical documents, plus the authority’s internal review queue.

Where do I start with Dubai Municipality product registration for a new product?

You should start Dubai Municipality product registration by confirming the correct product category and identifying the applicable registration system, such as Montaji for food, cosmetics, and regulated consumer products. Once the category is defined, the required supporting documents—typically including product labels, composition details, and manufacturer certificates—must be prepared in line with Dubai Municipality requirements. Registration is then submitted through the relevant Dubai Municipality portal for technical and safety review. For accurate classification, document preparation, and end-to-end submission through official systems, you may apply through EGSH, an authorised government services centre.

How to get an ESMA certificate in the UAE?

To obtain an ESMA certificate, the product must undergo a federal conformity assessment administered by the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT). The process involves classifying the product under the applicable UAE technical regulations, submitting technical documentation, test reports, and conformity data through MoIAT’s official electronic system, and completing the required conformity procedures. Once compliance is confirmed, the conformity certificate is issued, allowing the product to proceed with local registration, import, and sale in the UAE where required.

What is the Dubai Municipality Montaji portal?

The Dubai Municipality Montaji portal is the official electronic system used to register and approve regulated products—primarily food, cosmetics, and certain health-related items—before they are imported, distributed, or sold in Dubai. Through Montaji, Dubai Municipality reviews product composition, ingredients, labelling, and safety compliance against UAE regulations. Approval in Montaji is mandatory for these product categories and forms the legal basis for customs clearance and market access in Dubai.

When is Montaji product registration required?

Montaji product registration is required when a product falls under categories regulated by the Dubai Municipality, most commonly food products, cosmetics, health supplements, and certain personal care items intended for sale in Dubai. Registration is mandatory before the product can be imported, cleared through customs, distributed, or sold in the local market. Any product subject to municipal safety, composition, and labelling controls must be approved through the Montaji system before commercial use.

Is cosmetic product registration in Dubai mandatory before import and sale?

Yes. Cosmetic products must be registered with Dubai Municipality through the Montaji system before they can be imported, distributed, or sold in Dubai. Customs clearance and market placement are not permitted without an approved registration.

Do detergents require mandatory product registration in the UAE before import and sale?

Yes. Detergents and cleaning products are regulated consumer products and must undergo mandatory product registration before import and sale. Depending on the product composition and intended use, registration may involve Dubai Municipality systems and, in some cases, federal conformity requirements.

What is a Free Sale Certificate in the UAE, and when is it required?

A Free Sale Certificate is an official document confirming that a product is legally manufactured, registered, and permitted for sale in its country of origin or in the UAE. It is commonly required during product registration in Dubai for regulated categories such as cosmetics, food supplements, and certain consumer goods, especially for imported products. Authorities use it to verify that the product is already lawfully marketed and not experimental or restricted.

What are the product registration fees in the Dubai Municipality systems?

Product registration fees in Dubai Municipality systems depend on the product category, the registration platform used (such as Montaji), and whether the application is for a new product, renewal, or amendment. Fees are set by the authority and paid per product or SKU, not per company. Additional charges may apply for modifications, relabelling, or reclassification requests.

New Product Registration in Dubai | Dubai Municipality Montaji & FIRS Support

Name: New Product Registration
Brand: EGSH

Product Registration in Dubai and the UAE

EGSH is an authorised government services centre providing access to official product registration procedures required for placing goods on the Dubai and UAE market. Depending on the product category, registration is managed by the Dubai Municipality systems and, where applicable, in coordination with federal technical regulations.

EGSH assists clients with product registration for regulated categories such as food products, cosmetics, health supplements, detergents, and consumer goods. The service includes submission through the appropriate government platform, verification of product category requirements, review of labelling and supporting documentation, and coordination of approvals until registration is completed.

Why choose EGSH:

Authorised submission through official government systems
Single point of coordination for municipal and federal approvals
Transparent, government-regulated fees

Once approved, the product is officially registered for legal import and sale within the applicable jurisdiction. Validity depends on the product category and the registration system. Food, cosmetics, and detergents registrations are commonly issued for five years, subject to ongoing compliance with applicable regulatory requirements.

Register Products for Legal Import and Sale in the UAE

Visit EGSH

Visit our authorised centre during working hours—no prior appointment is required. You may also book your visit online at a convenient time.

Prepare Product Details

Our consultant reviews the product category, required registration system, and supporting documents, including labels and technical information, before submission.

Submit Registration Application

EGSH submits the product registration request through the applicable government platform and monitors the application status until review is completed.

Receive Registration Approval

Once approved, the product is officially registered for legal import, distribution, and sale within the applicable jurisdiction.

Visit EGSH for VIP Service Without Queues

You can stop by EGSH during working hours without an appointment or book your visit at a time that suits you best.

Address
Art of Living Mall, Al Barsha 2, Dubai

Operating hours
Monday — Saturday: 9:00 am — 5:00 pm
Sunday: Closed

Call +971 4 612 1810 WhatsApp

Product Label

Final product label showing information such as product name, ingredients or composition, manufacturer and importer details, country of origin, batch number, and expiry or production dates. Arabic labelling applies depending on the product category.

Product Composition

Detailed product formulation, ingredient list, or technical specification used to assess compliance with safety standards and prohibited substances, depending on the product type.

Supporting Certificates

Applicable documents such as Free Sale Certificate, Certificate of Analysis, MSDS (for chemical products), or laboratory test reports issued by approved authorities in the country of origin.

Company Documents

Valid UAE trade licence, importer details, and authorised signatory information required to submit the product registration through official government systems.

Take a 3D Tour of EGSH

VIP Service

Personal assistance and priority processing with no queues.

Affordable Fees

Official government rates with transparent, fixed pricing.

All Services in One Place

Comprehensive range of UAE government services under one roof.

One-Visit Completion

Most procedures are completed in a single visit to the centre.

What Is Product Registration in the UAE

Product registration in the UAE is a mandatory regulatory procedure that authorises a product to be legally imported, distributed, and sold within the country. Registration is required before a product enters the UAE market and applies to a wide range of consumer goods, including food, cosmetics, health supplements, detergents, and other regulated products.

Registration is product-specific, not company-specific. Each product (SKU) must be approved and recorded in the relevant government system, regardless of whether the product is manufactured locally or imported. The registration confirms that the product complies with applicable safety standards, composition rules, labelling requirements, and consumer protection regulations enforced in the UAE.

Without valid registration, products may be blocked at customs, removed from shelves, or subject to administrative penalties. Registration, therefore, serves as a legal prerequisite for the UAE market access.

Regulatory Authorities Responsible for Product Registration

Product registration in the UAE is governed through a multi-level regulatory framework, involving municipal and federal authorities, depending on the product category.

At the emirate level, Dubai Municipality is the primary authority responsible for approving consumer products intended for sale in Dubai. Dubai Municipality operates dedicated digital systems for product registration and safety review, which are used for locally manufactured and imported goods.

At the federal level, product compliance may also fall under technical regulations issued by the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT), formerly known as Emirates Authority for Standardization and Metrology (ESMA). These regulations establish mandatory standards for specific product categories, including cosmetics, food supplements, electrical items, and chemical products. Where applicable, compliance with federal technical regulations is assessed alongside municipal registration.

The applicable authority and approval pathway depend on the nature of the product, its intended use, its composition, and whether it falls under a regulated technical category.

Products Subject to Mandatory Registration in Dubai and the UAE

Mandatory product registration applies to consumer products that may affect public health, safety, or consumer rights. Dubai Municipality and federal regulators require registration for products that are ingested, applied to the body, used in households, or marketed with functional or health-related claims.

Products commonly subject to registration include:

Food and beverages, including packaged foods and drinks
Cosmetics and personal care products, such as skincare, haircare, and perfumes
Health supplements, vitamins, minerals, and herbal products
Household and chemical products, including detergents, cleaning agents, and air fresheners
Other regulated consumer goods as identified by municipal or federal authorities.

Registration requirements vary by product category and are determined by composition, declared use, and regulatory classification. The applicable registration system, supporting documentation, and approving authority are defined accordingly at the time of application.

Dubai Municipality Product Registration Systems: Montaji and FIRS

Dubai Municipality administers product registration through specialised electronic systems, selected based on product category and regulatory scope.

Montaji is the primary registration system for food products, cosmetics, health supplements, detergents, and selected consumer goods placed on the Dubai market. The system manages product classification, label compliance review, document submission, and technical approval before import or sale.
FIRS (Food Import and Re-export System) is used in parallel for food-related activities connected to import control, consignment clearance, and compliance monitoring at entry points. While Montaji governs product eligibility and registration validity, FIRS supports import operations once registration is approved.

Registration through the appropriate Dubai Municipality system is mandatory before products can be legally imported, distributed, or sold in Dubai.

How to Register a Product in Dubai

Product registration in Dubai is handled by the Dubai Municipality’s approved electronic platforms and follows a regulated submission and review process.

The procedure begins with confirmation of product classification and the applicable registration system. Supporting documents and product data are submitted via the relevant platform, followed by a technical and regulatory review by the Dubai Municipality. This review assesses compliance with safety standards, labelling rules, and category-specific technical requirements.

Once approved, the product is issued an official registration record, allowing legal import and market placement within the approved scope. Registration remains subject to ongoing compliance and may require updates if product details change.

Food Product Registration in Dubai

Food products must be registered with the Dubai Municipality before import or sale. Registration covers packaged food, beverages, dietary products, and similar consumables intended for human consumption.

Applications are reviewed for ingredient compliance, nutritional declarations, shelf-life information, and mandatory labelling elements. Product claims and composition are assessed against applicable food safety standards.

Approved food products are registered in the municipal system and may then be imported and cleared through designated food control channels.

Cosmetic Product Registration in Dubai Municipality

Cosmetic products require prior registration with the Dubai Municipality before being marketed in Dubai. This includes skincare, haircare, personal hygiene products, fragrances, and similar cosmetic preparations.

Registration focuses on ingredient safety, prohibited substances, product function, and label accuracy. Claims must align with cosmetic classification and may not imply medical or therapeutic effects.

Only registered cosmetic products may be imported, distributed, or offered for sale within Dubai.

Health Supplements and Regulated Consumer Products

Health supplements, detergents, and selected consumer products are subject to additional regulatory scrutiny due to their composition or intended use.

Health supplements are reviewed for formulation, active substances, dosage presentation, and labelling compliance. Products classified under this category must meet enhanced documentation and safety review requirements.

Detergents and other regulated consumer goods are assessed for chemical composition, safety warnings, and conformity with applicable technical standards before approval.

ESMA Certification and When It Is Required in the UAE

The term “ESMA certification” is a commonly used market reference to federal product conformity certification in the UAE. Historically, these certifications were administered by the Emirates Authority for Standardization and Metrology (ESMA). Today, all conformity assessment and certification functions are officially performed by the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT) under UAE federal technical regulations.

This federal conformity certification is required for specific product categories that fall beyond purely municipal registration frameworks and are subject to mandatory safety, quality, and technical compliance before being placed on the UAE market. In such cases, registration through the Dubai Municipality systems alone is not sufficient.

Products that typically require federal conformity certification include selected consumer goods, electrical and electronic products, regulated chemical items, personal care products, and other categories governed by UAE conformity schemes. The exact requirement depends on the product’s classification, composition, intended use, and applicable technical regulations.

Where applicable, MoIAT conformity certification (commonly referred to as an “ESMA certificate”) must be obtained before or in parallel with local product registration, depending on the product category. Without this certification, the product cannot be legally registered, imported, or placed on the UAE market.

Product Label Requirements in the UAE

All products subject to registration in Dubai and the UAE must comply with mandatory labelling requirements defined by the competent authority and applicable technical standards.

Labels are reviewed as part of the registration process and must accurately reflect the product’s classification, composition, and intended use. Mandatory label elements generally include the product name, ingredients or composition, manufacturer and importer details, country of origin, batch or lot number, and production and expiry dates where applicable.

Arabic labelling is mandatory for most regulated product categories, either as a primary label or as a compliant supplementary label affixed to the packaging. Claims, descriptions, and marketing statements are assessed for regulatory accuracy and must not conflict with the approved product category or applicable safety rules.

Non-compliant labels may result in registration rejection, suspension, or post-market enforcement action.

Supporting Documents and Certificates for Product Registration

Product registration requires submission of category-specific supporting documents to verify safety, origin, and regulatory compliance.

Typical documentation includes a free sale certificate or equivalent proof confirming that the product is legally marketed in its country of origin, along with manufacturer authorisation where the applicant is not the producer. Ingredient or composition disclosures are required for regulated categories, supported by technical data or safety documentation as applicable.

Additional certificates may be required depending on the product type, including conformity certificates, test reports, or federal approvals. All documents must be valid, consistent with the submitted product data, and issued by recognised authorities or accredited bodies where required.

Product Registration Validity, Renewal, and Amendments

Once approved, product registration in Dubai and the UAE is generally valid for a fixed period, typically up to five years, subject to continued compliance with applicable regulatory requirements. During the validity period, the registered product may be legally imported, distributed, and sold within the approved jurisdiction.

Registration is not perpetual. Before expiry, the registration must be renewed through the same government system used for the original approval, with confirmation that the product, formulation, labelling, and manufacturer details remain unchanged. Failure to renew on time may result in suspension of the product record and restriction on import or sale.

Any changes to the registered product must be formally recorded through an amendment request. This includes changes to ingredients or formulation, packaging or labelling, manufacturer or country of origin, importer or licence holder details, or product claims. Unapproved changes may invalidate the registration and expose the importer or distributor to regulatory action.

Common Reasons for Product Registration Rejection

Product registration applications may be rejected by the competent authority where submitted information does not meet regulatory standards or conflicts with applicable technical rules.

Common grounds for rejection include incorrect product classification, non-compliant labelling, incomplete or inconsistent documentation, or discrepancies between declared ingredients and supporting certificates. Products making unauthorised claims, particularly in food, cosmetic, or health-related categories, are also subject to rejection.

Registrations may be refused where required conformity certificates or approvals are missing, expired, or issued by unrecognised bodies. Inaccurate manufacturer details, invalid free sale certificates, or inconsistencies between documents and packaging artwork are frequent causes of delay or refusal.

Ensuring accurate classification, complete documentation, and full compliance with labelling and safety standards is essential to avoid rejection and repeated resubmission.

Department of Dubai Economic Services at EGSH

Explained by

Shaimaa Sayed Qasem

Department of Dubai Economic Services at EGSH

Shaimaa Sayed Qasem is a dedicated service provider at the Department of Dubai Economic Services at EGSH, with seven years of experience delivering business services, supporting clients and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.

Patent Registration

Secure your innovation with official patent registration in the UAE.

From AED 2,660

Trade Licence Registration

From AED 130

Company Registration

Start your business in Dubai with EGSH’s expert company registration services.

From AED 2,200

All Services

View all Business & Licensing Services

Frequently Asked Questions About New Product Registration in the UAE

Still have any questions?

I had an excellent experience with the wonderful help of Maria Claudia Garcia. Her professionalism and attention to detail made the whole process easy.

They are really very amazing very kind I was having problem with my residency and my license miss Zara and miss Amna they really help me from start to end and they are really very kind and professional highly recommend if any wants to setup there business go with egsh and thanks miss Zara 🙏 you are really very amazing person

I had a pleasure being assistanced by Ms. Natalia today and her support throughout the process. Everything was smooth, super professional, efficient and high level service was exceptional. Highly recommended for anyone looking for reliable and smooth government-related services.

I had such a great experience with EGSH (Emirates Government Services Hub)! Everything went super smoothly, and the team was really helpful. A big shout‑out to Ms. Zara Moshiri—she was kind and supportive the whole way through. Truly appreciate it!

Super quick and efficient service. Maria was available via WhatsApp and responded very quickly to all messages.

I got a delightful service from them to upgrade my visa category half of the expected timeline. Compared with my previous place, this the best and I would like to recommend any of visa service for all of you. * reasonable fair (I was asked twice my previous what I paid). * fast service and delivering before timeline. * Authentic service. Thank you so much Maria for your dedicated service.!

An exceptional service from Zara at EGSH. She guided us perfectly through the process and managed to get us even more than we had anticipated. A world class service center with exceptional staff. Would recommend them to anyone who wants to get sorted for government services

Hello, My Name is Kelvin it was my first time to hear EGSH Emirates Govt from my sponsor. I was assisted By Mrs Maria Claudia Garcia the experience was amazing from the beginning to the End she has been supporting and guiding me through all the process. I am grateful to her and the entire team for the help. I trust and believe EGSH is a place to recommend to family members and friends.

A very hassle free experience from EGSH. Special mention of Ms.Zara who was most helpfull. Her quick response to queries and swift action are much appeciated.

We had the pleasure of being assisted by the lovely Ms Maria and Ms Randa. They were clear concise and super professional throughout our whole process of renewing our Ejari and business licence. Maria provided continued support while we were waiting for our business Ejari to come through and made it a simple seamless process. I can’t thank these lovely ladies enough. We saved so much money going direct and it was refreshing knowing we are not over paying going through a PRO or typing service company that add so many fees. I saved over 6000aed just for reference. Thank you to EGSH staff. Especially Maria & Randa 🙏

EGSH in art of living is the best Hub center for every thing that you want in dubai Specially Ms.ZARA MOSHIRI is the advisor and assistance and she is beside you in every step Thank you Ms.ZARA MOSHIRI and EGSH

I recently visited this institution had an exceptional experience! Ms. Maria Claudia took the time to understand my needs and preferences. I really appreciate her support and services.

Good morning, I needed to apply for the Golden Visa and went to this EGSH Emirates office. I was very impressed by their facilities and the peaceful atmosphere. We were fortunate to be assisted by María Claudia García, who provided exceptional service. She advised and helped us every step of the way, guiding us through the entire process until we obtained the Golden Visa. Honestly, people with this level of professionalism and personal touch make one feel more at ease and integrated into this country. Thank you!

I would like to express my appreciation to Ray from EGSH for his outstanding assistance in handling the transfer of our property at Rove Hotel. He was very helpful, accommodating, and patient throughout the entire process, from addressing transaction concerns and verifying documents to the actual property transfer and ensuring the new owner received the title deed…

I worked with Amir and Zara, they took care of everything, I only had to send the mandatory information. In a very short time, everything was completed. I was amazed, considering how difficult it had seemed before. Not to mention, the fees were the same or even lower than those of the other companies I mentioned. For me, it was a 10/10 experience, the quickest and smoothest process someone could have in this journey. Strongly recommend them.

Zara assisted me with my Ejari registration, and she was absolutely amazing. She demonstrated exceptional professionalism, efficiency, and delivered everything promptly. Truly a pleasure to work with!

THE BEST!!! Zara you are as always star

Thanks to EGSH and to Zara for Excellent service — professional, attentive, and truly pleasant experience. Highly recommended!

Had an amazing service for the transfer of property there, specially Rachel Rahmat she was very helpfull throughout the process, looking forward to work more.

Visited for the first time for a property transfer and had an amazing experience with Jessieca! She was professional, helpful, and made the entire process smooth and stress-free. Highly recommended for all government services excellent customer service!

Personally, I find this the best centre in Dubai. They always go the extra mile. Especially Maria Garcia has help out so much in such an efficient way! Thank you!

Went there for ejari cancellation. Excellent place. Staff was so cooperative. Ms Maria and Ms Fatima assist me and it was a fast process.

This is probably the best government service hub in Dubai. You come in, asked to be seated, and the staff will come to you instead of standing on the reception and on queue. They will offer you tea and water are available at each table. Really embodies the Emirati hospitality and what seamstresses Dubai is known for.

I was here the morning of this post. The concierge like service with a contact person arranging for you all the difeerent interactions is making the interactuon as smooth as possible. A truly delightful experience and a true commitment to service excellence, thank you for the great experience and for the initiative to present government interactions in this way!

Outstanding service — fast, friendly, and highly professional. Thank you very much!

I’ve been here for the first time and I can say that this organization definitely worth to come here and make all proceeds with their help! We were changing the owner and such difficult process was really easy for us with your help and most of the time it was done online. So I’m very grateful to Mrs Zara and her support during all the process❤️

I had an excellent experience with Natalia Baiamonte from EGSH while getting Ejari certificate. From the very beginning, she was professional, attentive, and extremely helpful. Natalia guided me through the process clearly, answered all my questions with patience, and made task feel simple and stress-free. Highly recommend Natalia for her outstanding customer service and dedication!

We had great experience with Amal She is so helpful and awesome She stayed with us over her duty today just to finish her work Thanks Amal

I had a really good experience with EGSH (Emirates Government Services Hub). Everything went smoothly and the team was super helpful. Special thanks to Zara and Amal. they were so supportive and kind throughout the process. Really appreciate it!

I had a great experience with this office. They handle everything related to company setup, residency, Golden Visa, DLD, and more. The office is very clean, modern, and welcoming, and the staff are extremely professional and polite. A special thank to Ms. Zara for her kindness and guidance throughout the process so smoothly and professionally, and to Ms. Amal for managing the administrative registration.

Zara is the best always attentive to every requests and helping with a solving problems without delay thank you Zara❤️🌸 …

Absolutely stunning office, i am awestruck. No one can beat Dubai for the kind of hospitality you get in a government office… Its mind-blowing 😍 i wish i could give a 10 star rating (double) on 5 🤩

I had a great experience with EGHS. I was assisted by Sarah Almeida and she delivered an amazing service. Very attentive, promptly responded my messages and guided me throughout the process. It was all very smooth and done very quickly. I highly recommend and I’ll definitely use their services again.