Home-Made Cosmetic Registration Process in Dubai, UAE

Are you planning to start your own homemade cosmetic business in the UAE? Do you want to create products that people love and make you a lot of money? Making and selling cosmetics from home can be exciting and creative. But before you can sell your products, you need to register them. It involves planning, checking ingredients, labeling, and meeting other requirements. Let’s go through the whole homemade Cosmetic Registration Process in Dubai step by step.

Requirements for Starting a Homemade Cosmetics Products Business in Dubai

Here’s a list of requirements including essential documents that you’ll need when applying for homemade cosmetic business registration:

• An establishment card from the FAIC (Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship).
• Ability to hire employees, with up to 3 work permits available.
• Membership numbers in both the Chamber of Commerce and MoHRE (Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation).
• Renewal of trade or commercial license for over 1000 commercial activities.
• Tenancy contract permits and other relevant approvals as per your business requirements.
• Trade name registration.
• If selling online through e-commerce platforms, an e-commerce license is mandatory.

Before starting homemade cosmetics business in Dubai, you must understand product registration in Dubai Municipality, to ensure compliance with regulations and standards set by the Emirates Standardization and Meteorological Authority (ESMA).

Home-Made Cosmetic Registration Process in Dubai

The time-line for approval of homemade cosmetic product registration is between 45 to 60 days. The registration is valid for 5 years as an extension for renewal to be reviewed.

Here is the complete process to register homemade cosmetic products in Dubai, UAE:

Step 1. Choose your business activity 

Begin by determining your business activity. In our case, we’re focusing on selling homemade cosmetics products.

Step 2. Choose a Business or Company Name

Once you’ve clearly understood the business activities involving your homemade cosmetics products, you need to choose a business or company name that reflects your business nature. It will be your brand name. Given the saturation in the homemade and online product market, opt for a name that’s both catchy and descriptive of your cosmetics. Also, ensure that it complies with the UAE’s naming regulations. Additional requirements may be necessary based on your products.

Homemade Cosmetic Product Label Assessment

Before introducing any homemade cosmetic product into the Dubai market, it’s necessary to register each item with the Dubai Municipality. Obtaining a certificate for cosmetic product label assessment is mandatory for trading purposes.

During this step, all product information undergoes thorough review. You need to provide a sample and design slip of the cosmetics product and applicant details to the Consumer Products Safety Section (CPSS). Upon reviewing the product label, the CPSS will issue a Cosmetic Label Assessment Report to ensure the product’s safety. Occasionally, the report may suggest tweaks and include remarks about the label if necessary.

Homemade Cosmetic Product Label Compliance

You will be the manufacturer and distributor of your homemade cosmetics products. So, your products are obligated to adhere to product label requirements to sell them in Dubai. At RIZ & MONA CONSULTANCY, we specialize in cosmetic product regulatory compliance and can assist you in meeting the strict regulations imposed by the UAE authorities for the product label.

Step 3. Get an E-commerce License

For a homemade cosmetics business, obtaining an online or e-commerce business license is the ideal choice. This enables you to easily sell your cosmetics and beauty products online, reaching a broad market across the UAE.

To apply for an e-commerce license, you’ll need the following documents:

• A tenancy contract
• A copy of your passport
• A No Objection Certificate if you’re employed by a company in the UAE
• The license application form from your home jurisdiction
• An attested Memorandum of Association
• A copy of your Emirates ID

It’s essential to be aware that additional documentation may be required, depending on the specifics of your homemade business. Additionally, the costs associated with obtaining the license may vary based on your location in the Emirates.

Step 4. Open a corporate bank account 

Businesses operating in the UAE must have a corporate bank account to conduct transactions. Fortunately, there is a wide selection of both international and local banks available in the country. If you’re uncertain about which bank to choose, you can contact RIZ & MONA CONSULTANCY, and we’ll assist you in finding the most suitable option to meet your requirements. Additionally, our team of banking experts can help you prepare the necessary documents for the account application process.

Bonus Tip

Now that your homemade cosmetics products business is officially operational, it’s crucial to develop your brand and online store. Design a website or social media storefront that showcases your products effectively. Ensure that it is consistent with your brand identity, , user-friendly, and accessible on both mobile (Android and iOS platforms) and desktop devices. Additionally, provide customer service to address any concerns, issues, or inquiries and incorporate a payment gateway to facilitate easy purchases for your customers.

Required Documents

In the process of registering homemade cosmetic products in Dubai, it’s crucial to ensure compliance with regulatory standards and requirements. Ensuring you have these documents ready will help you complete the process of starting your homemade products business in the UAE.

Here’s a comprehensive list of the documents needed for a smooth registration process:

• Copy of the trade license of the company under which cosmetics products are to be registered
• Two samples of each cosmetic product (if a lab test is required).
• A clear picture of the product
• A clear artwork of the product
• Free sale certificate
• GMP certificate
• Halal certificate (if required)
• Organic certificate (If required)
• Ingredients report
• Certificate of analysis

Criteria of Trade License Registration for Home-Made Cosmetic Products

As mentioned earlier, obtaining a trade license is essential for legally operating your home-based cosmetics business. However, the application process comes with specific requirements. To obtain a DED trade license, you must fulfill the following conditions:

• The license is designated only for residential sites.
• The trader must own an Emirates ID to complete the registration process.
• Each trader is allowed a maximum of 10 activities per license within the same group descriptions.
• The DED trader license is renewable annually and remains valid for a year.
• Projects or startups must be established within the Emirates of Dubai.
• The trader is permitted to hold more than one license.
• The project owner must be at least 21 years of age.
• Amendments to social media accounts, business activity, and trade names can be made as per requests.

Benefits of Having a Trade License for Homemade Products Business in Dubai

The Department of Economic Development (DED) issues the trade license necessary for operating your homemade cosmetic products business in Dubai. This license allows you to integrate your business activities and online startups into the DED database, ensuring legality and recognition.

In addition to the legal authorization to run your home-based business, the DED provides several other benefits including:

• Display of homemade cosmetic products at consumer points of sale within DED partner premises.
• Access to temporary employment services.
• Issuance of an establishment card, enabling you to hire up to three employees.
• Access to workspace options through DED partners.
• Access to banking facilities for financial transactions.
• Acquisition of a “Customer Client Code” from Dubai Customs and Facilities Import and Export.
• Eligibility for Dubai Chairman membership for commercial activities.
• Provision of essential consultations to kickstart your homemade products business.
• Opportunity to participate in conferences, exhibitions, and training workshops.

When registering your business, you must choose a jurisdiction—either a free zone or the mainland of Dubai. If you opt for the mainland, the DED will provide the e-commerce license. However, if you register with a free zone, the relevant authority will issue the license.

UAE nationals need not obtain an e-commerce license. As UAE passport holders, they can operate their businesses by selling homemade cosmetic products from their residential homes under an Intelaq License, specifically designated for UAE nationals starting homemade products-based businesses.

Cost of E-commerce License for Home-Made Cosmetic Products in Dubai, UAE

The cost of obtaining an e-commerce license in the UAE for homemade cosmetic products varies depending on whether you opt for a trading or professional activity. Your choice between these two activities will determine the specific cost of the license in Dubai.

In addition to the e-commerce license fee, the typical expenses associated with establishing a business focused on selling homemade products in Dubai are:

• DED registration charges
• Additional partner visa charges, if required
• Investor’s Emirates ID and medical costs
• Medical insurance fee for the investor
• Additional partner charges, if required
• Investor visa cost
• Charges for the company’s stamp
• Foreign name fees, if applicable
• Immigration card cost
• Sponsorship cost for UAE local partner
• Any other government fees

Product Label Requirements for Homemade Cosmetic Items

Every homemade cosmetic product must have a label on its packaging. Usually, this label needs to be written in English. It can also be in more than one language, but each language’s information must be the same.

The product label should include at least:

• Batch number
• List of ingredients
• Instructions for using the product
• Medical claims are not allowed
• Brand name
• Product name (a brief description of what the product is)
• Production and expiration dates or period after opening
• The country of origin must be clearly stated and specific
• Product’s barcode
• Manufacturer’s details
• Net volume or weight

Why Homemade Cosmetic Registration is Mandatory in UAE?

Registration of homemade cosmetic products is mandatory in the UAE for several important reasons:

Compliance with Dubai Municipality Regulations

Every homemade product including cosmetics used for local trading in Dubai must be registered with the Dubai Municipality. This registration ensures that the product has undergone the necessary checks and has obtained a registration certificate, which is essential during shipment clearing processes.

Consumer Safety and Information

The registration process requires each cosmetic product to provide all necessary information on its label. This transparency ensures that customers have a clear understanding of the product they are purchasing, including its ingredients and usage instructions.

Protection Against Harmful Substances

Through product registration, the Dubai Municipality can assess and monitor the safety of homemade cosmetic products entering the market. This includes identifying any substances that may be harmful to human health or are restricted for use. Products containing such substances may be rejected or flagged by the Dubai Municipality.

Standardization and Regulation

The Dubai government standardizes the importation, manufacture, and sale of cosmetic products by mandating registration. This regulation ensures that all homemade cosmetic products meet safety standards before being placed on the Dubai market. Additionally, individuals involved in the cosmetics industry must obtain proper licenses related to cosmetic products, further enhancing regulation and oversight.

Ensuring Product Safety and Standards

In Dubai, home-based cosmetic products must be registered with the Dubai Municipality’s Health and Safety Department before they can be sold and distributed in the market. This registration process is designed to guarantee that all cosmetic products are safe for human use and comply with government-established standards.

Penalties for Selling Homemade Items for Business Without Trade License

Owners of small home businesses are permitted to sell their homemade cosmetic products online, at markets or events, provided that the organizing entity is fully licensed by relevant government authorities. Selling handmade items at regular crafter markets in Dubai or online is allowed without a trade license, as long as sales occur exclusively through these channels.

Active social media users can easily discover homemade cosmetic goods advertised by business owners in Dubai or across the UAE on platforms like Facebook, YouTube, Snapchat, and Instagram. However, it’s essential to understand that there are government rules and laws regulating the sale of homemade items in the UAE.

Many may not realize that there are specific laws and procedures governing the sale of handmade goods in the UAE. It is illegal to sell anything from home without the necessary licenses, permits, and essential documents. According to the country’s laws, any small business, whether professional or hobby-based, operating within Dubai or the UAE, must possess a trade license. If selling online, an e-commerce license is required.

Failure to obtain the necessary licenses and operating a cosmetic business without them can lead to severe penalties, including heavy fines or imprisonment. Therefore, it’s crucial for home-based businesses to adhere to the legal requirements and obtain the appropriate licenses to avoid legal consequences.

Get Home Made Cosmetic Registration Services in Dubai with RIZ & MONA CONSULTANCY

Turning your handmade creations into a successful business opportunity is exciting and can bring in good money. But before you can start making profits, you need to set up your business properly. Don’t worry, because RIZ & MONA CONSULTANCY knows exactly how to help you with this.

Contact us today, as we specialize in providing customized business solutions for all kinds of companies and their requirements, including those that make homemade cosmetic products. Whether you need help getting a business license, figuring out what you need to do first, or setting up a bank account, we’re here to support you at every stage of the process.

FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions

How can I register my homemade cosmetic product in UAE?

You need to get a legal trade license, fulfill the registration requirements, and submit the application to the relevant authorities in your Emirates like Dubai Municipality for Dubai, to register your homemade cosmetic products in the UAE.

How can I start a home-based cosmetic business in Dubai?

To start a home-based cosmetic business in Dubai, you need to obtain a business license from the DED. Then you need to obtain additional approvals, such as a Health License from the Public and Safety Department. Submit the required documents, pay the fees, and register the business as a distributor of homemade cosmetic products.

What are the requirements for home-based cosmetic product labels in the UAE?

The product label requirements for homemade cosmetic items are:

• Medical claims are not allowed
• Brand name
• Batch number
• List of ingredients
• The country of origin must be clearly stated and specific.
• Product’s barcode
• Manufacturer’s details
• Net volume or weight
• Instructions for using the product
• Product name (a brief description of what the product is).
• Production and expiration dates or period after opening

Who regulates cosmetics in the UAE?

In the UAE, the Emirates Standardization and Meteorological Authority (ESMA) is the organization established and authorized by Federal Law No. 28 of 2001 to oversee and regulate the personal care sector in the country.