The UAE is a high-value supplement market with consumers who spend significantly above global averages on health and wellness products. But it's also one of the more complex markets to enter correctly. Products must be registered before import, Arabic labels are mandatory, and halal certification is a practical requirement for reaching mass retail.
Two main regulators govern supplements in the UAE: Dubai Municipality (DM) for products sold in Dubai, and the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) for products sold federally (Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and other emirates). In practice, most brands seek MOHAP registration as it covers the broader market. Abu Dhabi has SEHA/DOH for healthcare-channel products.
MOHAP registration requires: application form, product dossier (Certificate of Free Sale from country of origin, COA, stability data, full formulation), Arabic and English label artwork, and halal certificate (strongly recommended). Registration typically takes 2–4 months. Products cannot be commercially imported before registration approval.
No law mandates halal certification for supplements, but major UAE retailers (Carrefour, Lulu, pharmacies) and most online platforms expect it. Gelatin capsule shells are the most common issue — porcine-derived gelatin is not acceptable. Vegetarian capsules (HPMC) or bovine halal-certified gelatin are required. Confirm the halal status of every excipient, not just actives.
Labels must be in Arabic (as well as English). Required in Arabic: product name, ingredient list, nutritional information, country of origin, net quantity, expiry date, storage conditions, and importer name and UAE address. Typeface must meet minimum size requirements. Labels are reviewed as part of the registration process.
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