December 24, 2025

The beauty and personal care industry in the UAE has witnessed exponential growth, with nail services becoming a key trend among consumers. Gel nail polish has gained immense popularity for its long-lasting finish, vibrant colors, and salon-quality results at home.

If you are planning to start a gel nail polish business in Dubai, understanding the product registration process is crucial. Noncompliance can lead to penalties, product recalls, or denial of market entry. This comprehensive guide by Maven Regulatory Solutions will help you navigate Dubai Municipality regulations, technical documentation, labeling requirements, and import guidelines to ensure seamless product registration.

Table of Contents

  1. What is Gel Nail Polish Product Registration?
  2. Regulatory Framework for Gel Nail Polish in Dubai, UAE
  3. Step-by-Step Process to Register Gel Nail Polish in Dubai
  4. Gel Nail Polish Product Labeling Requirements
  5. Required Documentation for Product Registration
  6. Maintaining Product Database & Amendments
  7. Product Review, Recall, and Compliance
  8. Starting a Gel Nail Polish Business in Dubai
  9. Importing High-Quality Gel Nail Polish Products
  10. Characteristics of a Premium Gel Nail Polish
  11. Conditions When Gel Polish Should Not Be Used
  12. FAQs – Gel Nail Polish Registration & Business Setup

1. What is Gel Nail Polish Product Registration?

Gel nail polish product registration is a mandatory process to ensure that the products entering Dubai’s market are safe for consumers. The Consumer Products Safety Section (CPSS) of Dubai Municipality evaluates product ingredients, labeling, and safety compliance before granting market approval.

Key Points:

  • No gel nail polish can be manufactured, imported, advertised, or sold in Dubai without registration.
  • Registration ensures compliance with UAE cosmetic regulations and consumer safety standards.
  • Validity of registration: 5 years (renewable).

2. Regulatory Framework for Gel Nail Polish in Dubai, UAE

Gel nail polish products are considered cosmetic products with chemical and sometimes medicinal components. Dubai Municipality, along with the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP), regulates these products to ensure safety and efficacy.

Regulations Include:

  • Dubai Municipality Consumer Products Safety Regulations
  • Ministry of Health guidelines for cosmetics and chemical safety
  • Standards for heavy metals, microbiological safety, and preservatives

Latest Update (2025):

  • Stricter controls on labeling and chemical composition
  • Mandatory digital submission for registration and labeling assessment
  • Emphasis on sustainable packaging and ingredient transparency

3. Step-by-Step Process to Register Gel Nail Polish in Dubai

Step 1: Gather Documentation

Ensure all regulatory documents are prepared and meet the Dubai Municipality requirements.

Step 2: Submit Application

Apply for product registration through the Dubai Municipality online portal.

Step 3: Labeling Assessment

Provide either:

  • Physical samples of the product
  • Or label design drafts with all product details

The Consumer Products Safety Section will issue a labeling assessment report detailing required modifications if any.

Step 4: Approval

Once all documents and labeling are verified, the gel nail polish registration is approved for 5 years.

4. Gel Nail Polish Product Labeling Requirements

Accurate and transparent labeling is mandatory. Products must be provided:

Label Requirement

Details

Health Warnings

Any potential allergic reactions

Instructions for Use

Step-by-step application guide

Size/Weight

Net weight of the product

Medical Claims

Only scientifically proven claims

Serial Number

Unique product identification

Product Name

Brand and product title

Production Date & Expiry Date

Manufacturing and expiration info

Period After Opening (PAO)

Duration for safe use

Storage Condition

Recommended storage practices

Ingredients

Complete list with percentages & CAS numbers

Brand Name

Registered trademark

Country of Origin

Manufacturer location

Batch Number

Traceability for quality control

Bar Code

For retail and tracking

Manufacturer Details

Name, address, contact info

Tip: Use swing tags or leaflets for products where container size limits labeling space.

5. Required Documentation for Product Registration

To register gel nail polish products in Dubai, submit the following documents:

  1. Product Description – Detailed description of the product and category
  2. Ingredient List – Excel format including concentration and CAS numbers
  3. Valid Trade License – Reflecting related business activity
  4. Certificate of Free Sale (CFS) – Authorized by the UAE embassy
  5. GMP Certificate – Ensures compliance with manufacturing standards
  6. Packaging Artwork & Label Design – For assessment
  7. Two Product Samples – Physical samples for testing
  8. Analysis Report – Including pH, odor, and chemical properties
  9. Health Certificate – Authorized by the UAE embassy
  10. Laboratory Test Report – Heavy metals, preservatives, microbiological tests

Additional Requirements (if applicable):

  • Shelf-life study reports
  • Batch testing documentation
  • Safety data sheets (SDS)

6. Maintaining Product Database & Amendments

After registration, maintain a product database including:

  • Email address & representative name
  • Company address, P.O. Box, telephone, fax, mobile
  • Product details, company name, batch numbers

Any amendments or changes in product information must be approved or notified to the Consumer Products Safety Section.

7. Product Review, Recall, and Compliance

Dubai Municipality may initiate a product review or recall in case of:

  • Safety concerns
  • Regulatory non-compliance
  • Adverse effects reported by consumers

Recall Procedure:

  • Immediate notification to authorities
  • Removal of affected batches from the market
  • Documentation of corrective measures

Non-compliance can result in penalties, fines, or license suspension.

8. Starting a Gel Nail Polish Business in Dubai

Step 1: Research & Planning

Conduct market analysis including:

  • Consumer demographics
  • Competitor landscape
  • Pricing strategies
  • Potential distribution channels

Step 2: Legal Structure & Licensing

Choose a legal structure:

  • LLC
  • Sole proprietorship
  • Free zone company

Obtain necessary trading licenses and permits.

Step 3: Services & Pricing

Offer a range of products and services:

  • Salon-quality gel polishes
  • Nail kits for home use
  • Loyalty programs and promotions

Step 4: Manufacturing & Supplies

Invest in professional-grade equipment, UV lamps, curing systems, and proper storage.

Step 5: Customer Service

Provide excellent customer support, training, and satisfaction guarantee.

9. Importing High-Quality Gel Nail Polish Products

Key Considerations:

Factor

Importance

Color Range

Offer at least 80–250 shades for variety

Quality

Salon-grade polish for durability

Price

Balanced affordability and profit margins

Finish

Glossy, matte, metallic, shimmer, pearl

UV Lamp Requirement

Ensure long-lasting results

Longevity

Lasts 2–3 weeks without chipping

Consistency

Same texture and color every batch

Ingredients

Free from toluene, formaldehyde, DBP

Tip: Always choose suppliers with international certifications like ISO 22716 GMP and dermatologically tested products.

10. Characteristics of a Premium Gel Nail Polish

A high-quality gel polish should have:

  • Long-lasting finish (2–3 weeks)
  • Diverse color palette
  • Easy and smooth application
  • Lightweight feel
  • Low odor and hypoallergenic
  • UV/LED curing compatibility
  • Safe chemical composition

11. Conditions When Gel Polish Should Not Be Used

Condition

Advice

Allergic Reactions

Avoid using if sensitive to any ingredients

Nail Infections

Do not apply for fungal or bacterial infections

Weak/Brittle Nails

Treat nail conditions before application

Pregnancy or Skin Sensitivity

Consult a physician before use

12. FAQs – Gel Nail Polish Registration & Business Setup

Q1. How do I start a gel nail polish brand in Dubai?

Conduct research, develop a business plan, select suppliers, design packaging, register products, obtain trading license, and launch.

Q2. What is the cost of starting a gel nail polish line?

Costs vary between licensing, trade permits, inventory, and marketing can range from AED 50,000 to AED 250,000 depending on scale.

Q3. How long does the registration process take?

Typically, 4–8 weeks, depending on documentation and labeling assessment.

Q4. Can I import products without a Dubai office?

No, a Dubai-based warehouse or legal representative is required for import compliance.

Q5. Is the gel nail polish business profitable?

Yes, with the right location, premium quality products, and brand differentiation, it offers high ROI.