Product certification is a critical requirement for accessing Gulf markets. The UAE and Saudi Arabia enforce strict regulations on product compliance. Companies that fail to meet certification requirements face substantial penalties. This article outlines the risks and penalties for non-compliant businesses in these countries.
Penalties in the UAE
Regulatory body: Emirates Authority for Standardization and Metrology (ESMA), now under the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT).Main consequences:- Fines: AED 10,000 to AED 100,000 (approx. $2,700 to $27,000).
- Product confiscation: Uncertified products may be seized and destroyed.
- Sales ban: Non-compliant goods can be removed from stores and prohibited from sale.
- Import suspension: Authorities may restrict or block further imports.
- Legal action: Repeated violations may lead to prosecution.
Penalties in Saudi Arabia
Main consequences:
- Financial fines: SAR 25,000 to SAR 1,000,000 (approx. $6,700 to $267,000).
- Customs block: Uncertified goods are detained at entry points.
- Return or destruction of goods: Products may be returned to the sender or destroyed at the importer's expense.
- Blacklisting: Offending suppliers may be flagged as unreliable.
- Import license revocation: SASO can suspend import rights in severe cases.
Conclusion
Certification is more than a regulatory formality—it's essential for market entry. Failing to comply with certification requirements in the UAE or Saudi Arabia can result in severe financial and reputational damage.
To ensure smooth market access and full compliance, we offer certification services through our team. From documentation review to obtaining ESMA (MoIAT) and SASO certificates, we provide full support at every step.
Partner with us to safeguard your business and simplify your export process.