A Complete Guide to Navigating MoIAT Certification and the UAE’s Perfume Conformity Requirements
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has one of the most structured product conformity systems in the region, overseen by the Ministry of Industry & Advanced Technology (MoIAT). Before perfumes and fragrances can enter the UAE market, they must undergo conformity assessment and obtain a valid Certificate of Conformity (CoC) confirming compliance with approved UAE standards.
The UAE conformity framework consists of two national certification schemes under MoIAT:
Both schemes share the same core purpose: ensuring that only compliant products reach UAE consumers. However, not all product categories fall under both schemes.
Perfumes and fragrances are regulated exclusively under ECAS, meaning they must obtain an ECAS Certificate before importation. They require formal assessment and certification prior importation in the UAE.
While EQM is not mandatory for this category, it can be obtained on a voluntary basis as an additional quality assurance mark.
(To understand which product falls under each certification scheme, please download our Regulated Product List.)
Cotecna is authorized by MoIAT to certify perfumes and fragrances under the UAE conformity program. The regulated product category includes:
- Perfumes (EDP-EDT-EDC)
- Splash
- Concentrated oils
- Others
Cotecna’s ECAS Certification Process for Perfume Products
As a MoIAT‑notified body, Cotecna supports exporters by managing the complete ECAS conformity assessment process required for perfume products entering the UAE market. This includes reviewing all technical documentation, coordinating accredited laboratory testing, and issuing the ECAS Certificate of Conformity, which MoIAT mandates for customs clearance and market access. Below are the key steps involved in the ECAS Certification Process for perfume products.
Step #1: Application Submission
Exporters initiate the process by submitting their product details and supporting documentation through the MoIAT portal.
Once the application is submitted, it is automatically routed to the selected notified body, and Cotecna receives a system notification informing us of the new application. Upon receipt, our team begins the conformity assessment process by reviewing the submitted information and required documents.
Step #2: Documentation Review
To meet ECAS requirements for perfumes, exporters must submit a complete compliance file including:
- UAE Industry/Trade License
- Industrial Measurement System registration (optional)
- Accredited laboratory test report aligned with UAE.S GSO 1943 and UAE.S GSO 1046
- Manufacturer Formula Declaration (ingredients + %)
- Free Sale Certificate (for imported products; legalization not mandatory)
- Representative artwork/label complying with UAE.S GSO 1943
- Arabic labeling (mandatory for renewals)
- GMP certificate/declaration
- Distributor Ownership Authorization Letter
- Product Safety Report (Cabinet Resolution No. 5 of 2014, Annex 2)
- Certificate of Analysis (COA)
Cotecna verifies the accuracy, completeness, and compliance of all submitted documents.
Step #3: Laboratory Testing
If the exporter lacks accredited test results, Cotecna can coordinate all required testing through ISO 17025‑accredited laboratories to demonstrate conformity with UAE standards.
Step #4: Conformity Assessment
Cotecna conducts conformity assessment of perfume products under the ECAS scheme, which consists of:
- Review of all technical documents
- Evaluation of accredited test results
- Verification of compliance with applicable UAE standards
This process ensures the product meets MoIAT’s mandatory safety and quality requirements for the UAE market.
Step #5: Certificate of Conformity Issuance
Once assessment is successfully completed, Cotecna issues the ECAS Certificate of Conformity, which MoIAT recognizes as the official document required for:
- UAE customs clearance
- Market circulation and distribution
With established technical expertise and a global laboratory network, Cotecna ensures that perfume products meet the UAE’s regulatory standards efficiently and in full alignment with the national conformity program.
For more information on exporting to UAE under MoIAT you can download our UAE exporter guide.
To start your UAE MoIAT certification process, contact us.
About Cotecna
For over 50 years, we have been supporting agriculture, food and pharma, minerals and metals, and consumer products supply chains all over the world. We provide testing, inspection, and certification services to help our clients navigate evolving regulations, ensure product compliance, and support their sustainability journey.