Trade Routes in Healthcare: A Deep Dive into Importing and Exporting Medical Devices in the UAE

Author: Ayushi Doegar
Published: December 29, 2023

Overview

Dubai, UAE, stands as a beacon of opportunity for entrepreneurs in the healthcare industry, offering a strategic location, robust infrastructure, supportive business ecosystem, and burgeoning demand for medical innovations. One of the most lucrative business ideas in Dubai, UAE is starting a medical device importing and exporting business.

This article explores the intricacies of establishing an import and export business of medical devices in Dubai, UAE.

Importing and Exporting Medical Devices in the UAE: The Legalities

Regulatory Authority

The import and export, as well as the distribution of Medical Devices in the UAE, is controlled by the Ministry of Health and Prevention.

Registration Requirements

Companies wishing to import and sell medical devices within the UAE must:

Key Requirements for Importing and Selling Medical Devices

To import and sell Medical Devices and Equipment in the UAE, there are several requirements:

  1. Company Registration: The company importing the equipment must be registered with the Ministry of Health with the related activities on the Trade License.

  2. Legal Entity Status: The importer must be a legal entity established in the UAE or a UAE national.

  3. Device Registration: The medical equipment must be individually registered with the UAE Ministry of Health.

Alternative Distribution Approach

Alternatively, the company can be engaged with a local distribution or commercial agent, already registered with the Ministry of Health, for the importation and distribution of medical products, who can register the medical products for them.

DED Licensed Activities for Medical Equipment Trading

The DED guidelines list two key activities linked to the importing, exporting, and trading of medical equipment and devices:

1. Surgical, Medical Articles, and Requisite Trading

This activity covers the resale of certain medical treatment instruments, including:

2. Surgical and Medical Equipment along with Instruments Trading

This activity includes the reselling of equipment and instruments used in clinics and hospitals for:

This activity also covers:

How to Start Your Importing and Exporting Medical Devices Business in Dubai, UAE

Step 1: Obtain a Commercial License

You will need to obtain a commercial license from the Department of Economic Development (DED) in the Emirate where you plan to operate, or get a free zone commercial license.

Step 2: Register with the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP)

To import and sell medical devices in the UAE, you have to register with the MOHAP, which needs detailed information about your company and the medical devices you intend to import and sell.

Step 3: Get a Device Marketing Authorization

You need to obtain medical device marketing authorization from the MOHAP to market your goods.

Step 4: Get the Necessary Certifications

The medical devices you want to import, export, and sell must meet specific regulatory requirements in the UAE, including having certain certifications such as:

These certifications prove that medical devices meet international safety and quality standards.

Step 5: Collaborate with a Distributor

Work with a distributor with good experience in importing and selling medical devices in the UAE.

Step 6: Comply with Regulations

To avoid legal complications, make sure to follow the specific regulations and standards for importing and selling medical devices in the UAE.

How SPC Free Zone Can Help You

SPC Free Zone promotes entrepreneurship and offers simple and value-added business support services. Whether you need an e-commerce license in UAE, a general trading license, or a professional license, we have it all covered.

Key Benefits

Contact Information

Do you want to know how to start your business of importing and exporting medical devices in Dubai, UAE? Contact the SPC Free Zone team for assistance.

Related Topics


This article provides guidance on establishing a medical device import and export business in the UAE, covering regulatory requirements, licensing procedures, and business setup steps.