How to Get Your Food Product Registration in Dubai?

Entering the UAE food market is a promising opportunity — yet it is full of restrictions. If the activities of your business involve import, distribution, or selling of consumables, then it is obligatory that you have your Food Product Registration in Dubai. Practicing high level hygiene before putting in the market, process is conducted by Dubai Municipality for food products up to the highest standard of health and safety.

This complete guide will lead you through all the essential steps, from grasping the rules to registering the documents, and getting your food item registration in Dubai smoothly through.

Understanding the Role of Dubai Municipality in Food Registration'

The Dubai Municipality (DM) is the primary authority overseeing food safety, labeling regulations, and registration of food items. Every edible product entering the UAE must pass through DM’s review process, which checks:

  • Safety of ingredients

  • Correct labeling (including Arabic translation)

  • Shelf-life and storage conditions

  • Packaging standards

  • Halal-certified (for applicable cases)

Companies that fail to do so could face fines or have their shipments rejected; in some cases they could be prohibited from trading for life. How to Food Product Registration in Dubai? Step by Step Guide


  1. Begin with Documents Registration

Your first priority is assembling all the mandatory documents. Missing paperwork can cause delays or outright rejection of your application.

You’ll need:

  • Product composition and ingredients list

  • Clear product label with English and Arabic text

  • Certificate of origin from the manufacturing country

  • Valid health certificate from the exporting authority

  • Halal Certificate (For Products From Meat | From Gelatin)

  • Your UAE trade license

A necessary step to guard against corrupt practices in international law is to adhere to the necessary provisions and act in accordance with conventions.

  1. Secure a Food Import Permit

Before you can proceed to actual food product registration, you must apply for a food import permit from Dubai Municipality. This is a legal prerequisite for importing any food into Dubai.

Applications are submitted through Dubai Municipality’s FIRES (Food Import & Re-export System) portal. Once your documentation is verified, you’ll be issued a permit that allows your product to legally enter the country.

  1. Apply Through Montaji System

With your permit in hand, you now move to the Montaji platform — Dubai Municipality’s official registration system for consumer products.

On Montaji, you’ll need to:

  • Create a profile for your business

  • Upload all documentation

  • Tell us about the product being offered – the materials, type of packaging, etc.

  • Include well lit, in focus photos of the packaging.

  • Confirm compliance with food category and labeling regulations

The accuracy of data entry is critical. Inconsistencies between label and documentation will delay the process.

  1. Submit for Evaluation and Testing

Dubai Municipality may request product samples for laboratory testing. The aim is to verify that the food product:

  • Contains no banned ingredients

  • Matches the composition listed on the documentation

  • Is safe for human consumption

  • Meets the UAE’s nutritional and health guidelines

Testing outcomes are communicated within a few working days, depending on the product type and volume.

  1. Obtain Final Registration Approval

Once your product is checked and good to go, the Dubai Municipality will give you a Food Product Registration Certificate.

  • This paper means your food can be sold in Dubai and the UAE.

  • Must be kept available during customs clearance and distribution

  • Is linked to your business license and specific product details

Your food item is now in the clear and ready to be imported, stored, and sold in Dubai and the wider UAE.

Tips for Successful Food Item Registration in Dubai

  • Always include Arabic translations on product labels

  • Make sure packaging information is consistent across documents

  • Don't wait until the last minute—it can take weeks to process.

  • Stay in the loop with Dubai Municipality food updates.

  • Use metric measurements and only make certified health claims.

It’s quicker to ascertain whether a product is prohibitive of shipping or simply a waste of time and money earlier rather than later. Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting incomplete documentation

  • Not including Arabic on labels

  • Using old or wrong packaging.

  • Saying something wrong about what's inside or where it came from.

  • Skipping product testing when required

Why HND Freight & Logistics Is Your Strategic Partner

Handling food product registration is just one piece of the puzzle. Once approved, your products must be shipped, cleared, stored, and delivered efficiently. That’s where HND Freight & Logistics steps in as your all-in-one logistics partner in Dubai.

We Offer:

  • Expert guidance in documents registration and Montaji applications

  • Efficient customs clearance for food imports

  • Temperature-controlled transport and storage

  • Full support for food item registration in Dubai

  • Packaging assistance to meet DM’s exact standards

Whether you’re shipping shelf stable meals, organic snacks or gourmet items, we make sure your shipment arrives safely, on time and in compliance with all regulations.

FAQs

1. What is the initial step for food product registration in Dubai?

You must gather required documents and obtain a food import permit before applying through Montaji for food product registration in Dubai.

2. Do I need a food import permit before registration?

Yes, obtaining a food import permit is prerequisite to launch any food item registration in Dubai with Dubai Municipality.

3. Which are the documents required for Dubai food registration?

You need a health certificate, label in Arabic, product composition, origin certificate, and trade license for documents registration in Dubai.

4. How long does the food product registration process take in Dubai?

It usually takes 1-3 weeks until they approve the application (depending on the product, testing, and accuracy of submitted documents).

5. Is it possible to register a food product in Dubai without having it labeled in Arabic?

No, All food items registered and sold in Dubai are required to have Arabic labeling, as per the Dubai Municipality regulation.

6. Is lab testing always required for food product registration?

Not always, but Dubai Municipality may require lab tests for verification depending on the food item’s composition and health claims.

7. What occurs once I register my product?

Upon approval you are provided with a certificate that allows you to sell, import and distribute the food product in the UAE market.

8. May I submit more than one food product under one application?

No, each item of a food consignment is required to be registered, documented and evaluated separately for it to be approved by the Dubai Municipality, through Montaji.

9. Who can assist me for food product registration in Dubai?

Companies like HND Freight & Logistics assist with compliance, documents registration, and Montaji application for food item registration in Dubai.

10. Is food product registration applicable through out all Emirates or only Dubai?

Yes, food product registration in Dubai is valid for all UAE Emirates, some Emirates would need additional local compliance documents.

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