How to Get ESMA Certification in UAE (2025): ECAS Process & Costs
1. What is ESMA ECAS Certification?
The Emirates Conformity Assessment Scheme (ECAS) is a mandatory certification issued by the UAE’s Emirates Authority for Standardization & Metrology (ESMA) to ensure products meet safety, quality, and technical standards. It’s required for 14 categories of automotive parts, electronics, and industrial goods entering the UAE market.
2. Who Needs ECAS Certification?
| Applicant Type | Requirements | Key Documents |
| Local Businesses | UAE trade license | Emirates ID copy |
| Foreign Companies | Local authorized agent | Notarized POA |
| Manufacturers | IATF 16949 certification (auto parts) | Factory audit reports |
3. 2025 ECAS Application Process
Phase 1: Product Classification
Identify if your product falls under ESMA’s 14 regulated categories:
- Brake systems, batteries, laminated glass, engine radiators
- Pro Tip: Check the ESMA Controlled Products List for updates.
Phase 2: Prepare Technical Documents
- ✅ Test reports from ESMA-approved labs (e.g., TÜV Rheinland, Intertek)
- ✅ Technical specifications with Arabic labeling
- ✅ Declaration of Conformity (DoC) template
Phase 3: Online Submission
- Create an account on the ESMA ECAS Portal
- Upload files (PDF-only, ≤10MB each)
- Pay fees: AED 2,500 application fee + testing costs
Note: Jebel Ali Free Zone companies get 15% tariff discounts.
Phase 4: Lab Testing & Factory Audit
| Test Type | Duration | Cost Range (AED) |
|---|---|---|
| Safety (e.g., brake friction) | 15 days | 8,000–12,000 |
| Environmental (VOC emissions) | 20 days | 10,000–15,000 |
| Factory Audit (if required) | 3–5 days | 5,000/day + travel |
Phase 5: Certificate Issuance
- ECAS Validity: 1 year (renew 2 months before expiry)
- Delivery: E-certificate in 3 days; hard copy via Aramex in 7 days
4. Cost-Saving Strategies
| Tactic | Savings | Applicability |
| Batch certification | Up to 30% on testing | Identical product variants |
| Free zone registration | 15% duty reduction | JAFZA/DAFZA businesses |
| Pre-audit mock checks | Avoid retest fees | High-risk products |
5. Common Rejection Reasons
6. FAQs (2025 Updates)
A:Yes, but use ESMA-approved couriers (e.g., Aramex) with a Non-Commercial Sample Declaration
A:You get 1 free retest within 30 days if you submit a corrective action report
A:No – only for products entering the UAE market. Use JAFZA temporary import licenses for re-export
7. Why Partner with Experts?
ESMA’s 2025 updates introduced stricter lithium battery safety rules (UN38.3) and AI-powered customs inspections. Certified consultants like JinYu provide:
- Document preparation & Arabic translation
- Lab coordination & mock audits
- Annual renewal management
Contact us for a free ECAS checklist: