Entering the UAE market for regulated products also requires them to meet very high quality standards and safety measures established by the government of the UAE through the Emirates Conformity Assessment Scheme (ECAS). This certification is to guarantee that products, such as cosmetics, machinery, electrical and electronics equipment, and food items meet the technical regulations required of them.
Before any product can be sold, the suppliers, traders, and manufacturers must register and receive a Certificate of Conformity (CoC) that indicates compliance with the standards established by the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT).
For such products as gas appliances, automotive parts, and building materials, the ECAS certification procedure involves checks by authorized notified bodies such as SGS, Intertek, amongst others. These organizations prove to be fulfilling their role in ensuring products comply with regulations and international standards established by MoIAT, such as Energy Efficiency Standards Labelling (EESL), RoHS, and others.
When a product is certified, it can be marked with the ECAS, which means that the product complies with all requirements of compliance and is safe for consumer use in the UAE. Businesses, therefore, gain access to the UAE market and gain the trust of consumers by showing that their products are of the highest standards.
Step-by-Step Process to Obtain ECAS Certification
- ECAS certification is needed for products entering the UAE market.
- Determine whether your product is classified as a regulated item, such as electrical appliances, cosmetics, construction materials, or food items.
- If you are an exporter or manufacturer from overseas, designate a local agent in the UAE carrying a current business licence.
- The local representative will function as the point of contact during the certification process.
- Submit the required documents to a Notified Body authorized by MoIAT, including:
- Application form
- Technical files (translated into Arabic)
- Test reports from accredited laboratories
- Product labeling details
- The product undergoes testing to confirm its adherence to established standards.
- Once the application and test findings are approved, MoIAT will provide the one-year valid ECAS Certificate of Conformity.
- Stay compliant by keeping an eye on the market and timely application for renewals to prevent fines or certificate cancellation.
ECAS vs EQM Certification for Specific Products
ECAS and EQM are both crucial certifications for products marketed in the UAE; however, they fulfil distinct roles and pertain to various categories of products:
- ECAS guarantees that regulated products such as electrical appliances, cosmetics, and food items comply with the safety and quality standards set by the UAE. It is mandatory for all regulated products and remains valid for a duration of one year, requiring renewal annually.
- EQM is granted to products from organisations that maintain an effective quality management system (QMS), guaranteeing adherence to UAE national standards. EQM is all about quality control—ensuring products are well-made and reliable. To get this mark, companies need a solid Quality Management System (QMS) (like ISO 9001) to maintain consistency.
The EQM is voluntary for many products but is mandatory for specific categories, such as:
- Bottled drinking water
- Milk and dairy products
- Juices and beverages
What is Certificate of Conformity?
The Certificate of Conformity (CoC) is necessary for regulated products that are imported or introduced into the UAE market. The product has successfully undergone the conformity assessment and complies with UAE safety and quality standards. The CoC guarantees market access and shows adherence to local regulations. A product cannot be legally sold in the UAE without it.
Why do you need a CoC?
A CoC is mandatory for regulated products to be traded in the UAE market. It helps ensure customs clearance at the point of entry into the country.
What are the Requirements of ECAS Certification?
- Valid UAE industry/trade license
- Electronic declaration of conformity and request for certification
- Test reports and certificates from an accredited laboratory according to MoIAT-approved standards
- Labels
- User manual or ingredients list in Arabic and English
- Additional technical, legal, or supporting documents may be requested depending on the scope
- Fees for certification