The Emirates Quality Mark (EQM) is a certification mark awarded by the Emirates Authority for Standardization and Metrology (ESMA) in the UAE. It signifies that a product, service, or system complies with the relevant UAE national standards, ensuring quality, safety, and performance.
What is the Emirates Quality Mark (EQM)?
The Emirates Quality Mark (EQM) is a national mark of conformity issued by the Emirates Authority for Standardization and Metrology (ESMA) in the United Arab Emirates. It indicates that a product complies with UAE national standards, ensuring its quality, safety, and performance. The mark is awarded after rigorous testing and evaluation, confirming that the product meets the required specifications and standards.
Why is the Emirates Quality Mark Required?
Quality Assurance
The EQM ensures that products meet established quality benchmarks, which enhances consumer confidence in the product’s reliability and performance.
Safety
It guarantees that the products are safe for consumer use, thereby protecting public health and safety.
Market Access
Products with the EQM are often given preferential treatment in the UAE market, facilitating easier access and acceptance.
Compliance with Regulations
It helps manufacturers and suppliers comply with local regulations and standards, avoiding legal and regulatory issues.
Competitive Advantage
The mark can provide a competitive edge in the market by signaling to consumers that the product is of high quality.
Which Products is the EQM Required?
The Emirates Quality Mark (EQM) is required for various products to ensure they comply with UAE national standards for quality, safety, and performance. The specific categories of products that typically require EQM certification include:
Food Products
- Processed Foods: Packaged foods, canned goods, snacks, etc.
- Dairy Products: Milk, cheese, yogurt, etc.
- Beverages: Juices, soft drinks, bottled water, etc.
Electrical Appliances
- Household Appliances: Refrigerators, air conditioners, washing machines, microwaves, etc.
- Electrical Goods: Lighting products, electrical cables, and other electrical components.
Building Materials
- Construction Materials: Cement, steel, glass, and other building materials.
- Safety Equipment: Fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, and other safety devices used in construction.
Children's Products
- Toys: All types of toys to ensure they are safe for children.
- Baby Products: Items such as cribs, strollers, and baby bottles.
Automotive Products
- Vehicle Parts: Tires, brake pads, and other automotive components.
- Lubricants: Engine oils and other lubricants used in vehicles.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Protective Gear: Masks, gloves, helmets, and other safety equipment.
- Medical Devices: Certain medical devices used for personal protection.
Cosmetics and Personal Care Products
- Skincare Products: Lotions, creams, and other skincare items.
- Haircare Products: Shampoos, conditioners, and hair treatments.
Energy Efficiency Products
- Air Conditioners: Must meet energy efficiency standards.
- Lighting Products: Energy-saving bulbs and fixtures.
Other Consumer Goods
- Textiles: Certain textile products to ensure they meet quality standards.
- Furniture: Especially those that have safety implications, like children’s furniture.
The EQM is required for these products to ensure they meet the high standards of quality and safety set by the UAE. This certification helps protect consumers and enhances market confidence in the products bearing the EQM. For manufacturers and suppliers, obtaining the EQM can facilitate easier market access and provide a competitive advantage.
Documents Required
The documents required for obtaining the Emirates Quality Mark (EQM) vary depending on the type of product and specific requirements set by the Emirates Authority for Standardization and Metrology (ESMA). Generally, the following documents are required:
Application Form
- Completed EQM Application Form: The form must be filled out with accurate details about the product and the manufacturer.
Product Specifications
- Product Description: Detailed description of the product, including its components and materials.
- Technical Data Sheets: Specifications and technical details of the product.
Quality Management System Documents
- ISO 9001 Certification: Proof of the company’s quality management system certification (if applicable).
- Quality Manual: The company’s quality manual outlining procedures and standards.
Test Reports
- Accredited Test Reports: Test reports from accredited laboratories showing compliance with relevant UAE national standards or international standards recognized by ESMA.
- Product Testing Data: Detailed test data and results.
Certificates
- Compliance Certificates: Certificates showing compliance with other relevant standards (e.g., CE, UL, etc.).
- Certificate of Conformity: A certificate demonstrating the product’s conformity to specific standards.
Manufacturing Documents
- Factory Inspection Reports: Reports from factory inspections conducted by ESMA or authorized bodies.
- Production Process Documentation: Documents detailing the manufacturing process, including quality control procedures.
Legal Documents
- Trade License Copy: A copy of the company’s trade license.
- Registration Certificates: Certificates of company registration with relevant authorities.
Labels and Markings
- Product Labels: Samples or images of product labels showing the brand, model, and other relevant information.
- Marking Details: Details of how the EQM will be displayed on the product.
Import Documents (if applicable)
- Bill of Lading: Document showing the shipment details if the product is imported.
- Customs Documentation: Relevant import and customs clearance documents.
Additional Documents
- Letter of Authorization: Authorizing ESMA to carry out necessary evaluations and inspections.
- Declaration of Conformity: A statement from the manufacturer declaring that the product conforms to relevant standards.
- Samples: Physical samples of the product for testing and evaluation by ESMA.
Process
Government Fees for EQM Registration
The fees for obtaining the Emirates Quality Mark (EQM) can vary depending on the type of product and the specific requirements of the certification process. However, the typical fees involved include:
Application Fee
A non-refundable fee for submitting the application. This may be range from AED 1,000 to AED 3,000.
Evaluation Fee
Fees for the evaluation process, including testing, factory inspections, and document reviews. These fees can vary widely based on the complexity and type of product, typically ranging from AED 5,000 to AED 20,000.
Certification Fee
Once the product is approved, there is a certification fee for issuing the EQM certificate. This fee can range from AED 3,000 to AED 10,000.
Renewal Fee
The EQM certification is usually valid for a specific period (often one year), after which it must be renewed. Renewal fees can range from AED 3,000 to AED 10,000.
Surveillance Fee
Periodic inspections and audits to ensure ongoing compliance, typically charged annually. These fees can range from AED 2,000 to AED 7,000.
Time Required for EQM Registration
The time required to obtain the EQM can vary based on several factors, including the complexity of the product, the completeness of the application, and the time taken for testing and inspections. However, the general timeline is as follows:
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EQM Registration
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Time
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Application Submission
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1-2 weeks
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Initial Review
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2-4 weeks
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Testing and Evaluation
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4-8 weeks (This can vary depending on the product type and the availability of testing facilities)
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Factory Inspection
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2-4 weeks (if applicable)
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Final Review and Certification
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2-4 weeks
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Total Estimated Time
The entire process, from application submission to receiving the EQM certificate, typically takes about 3 to 6 months. This timeframe can be shorter or longer depending on the specifics of the product and the efficiency of the application process.
Obtaining the Emirates Quality Mark involves several steps and associated fees, with the total cost and time varying based on the product type and complexity. Companies looking to obtain the EQM should prepare for an investment of both time and money to ensure their products meet the high standards set by the UAE authorities.
EQM certification is not required
The Emirates Quality Mark (EQM) is designed to ensure that products meet high standards of quality, safety, and performance. However, there are categories of products for which EQM certification is typically not required. These include:
Raw Materials
Basic raw materials that are not intended for direct consumer use, such as bulk chemicals, minerals, and agricultural products.
Unprocessed Food Items
Fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, and seafood that are sold in their natural state without processing.
Handicrafts and Traditional Artifacts
Items that are handcrafted and not produced on a mass scale, such as traditional art and crafts.
Used Products
Second-hand or refurbished items that have already been used by consumers, including used cars and pre-owned electronics.
Personal Items
Items for personal use that are not intended for sale or mass distribution, such as personal clothing, handmade gifts, and non-commercial DIY projects.
Perishable Goods
Products with a very short shelf life that are consumed quickly after production, such as bakery items and certain fresh foods.
Custom-Made Products
Products that are custom-made to specific individual requirements and are not mass-produced, such as bespoke furniture or custom-fitted equipment.
Prototype and Experimental Products
Items that are in the prototype or experimental stage and are not yet available for commercial sale.
Products with Other Mandatory Certifications
Products that are regulated by other specific certifications and standards that may supersede the need for EQM, such as certain medical devices and pharmaceuticals which require specific health authority approvals.
Non-Commercial Industrial Equipment
Large-scale industrial equipment and machinery that is not intended for consumer use and is used in industrial processes.
Understanding the Difference Between ECAS & EQM in the UAE
In the UAE, ensuring that products meet specific standards and regulations is crucial for both consumer safety and market compliance. Two prominent schemes that address product certification are the Emirates Conformity Assessment Scheme (ECAS) and the Emirates Quality Mark (EQM). While both serve to uphold quality and safety standards, they have distinct purposes and requirements. Here’s a breakdown of the differences between ECAS and EQM:
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ECAS
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EQM
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Purpose and Scope
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Purpose
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ECAS aims to ensure that products meet UAE safety, quality, and environmental standards before they enter the market. It covers a broad range of products including electronics, toys, building materials, and food items.
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EQM is a quality certification mark granted to products that demonstrate high levels of quality and performance. It is designed to promote high-quality products and reassure consumers about the reliability and excellence of products bearing the mark.
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Scope
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This scheme focuses on assessing and certifying products to comply with specific UAE standards and regulations. It often involves testing and certification from accredited laboratories.
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The EQM is generally awarded to products that meet specific quality standards and are produced under strict quality management systems. It is more focused on quality assurance rather than compliance with safety regulations.
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Certification Process
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Process
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The certification process under ECAS involves submitting detailed product specifications, test reports, and other documentation to ESMA (Emirates Authority for Standardization and Metrology). Products are tested and evaluated to ensure they meet UAE regulatory standards.
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To obtain the EQM, products must demonstrate compliance with high quality standards, often through rigorous testing and quality management assessments. The process emphasizes the product’s performance, durability, and overall quality.
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Validity
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ECAS certification typically has a validity period that can range from one to five years, depending on the product and its category. Regular renewals and updates may be required.
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The EQM is usually awarded based on ongoing compliance with quality standards. Like ECAS, it may also have renewal requirements to maintain the certification.
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Regulatory and Market Impact
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Regulatory Impact
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ECAS is mandatory for certain products to ensure they meet UAE safety and regulatory requirements. It is crucial for compliance with local regulations and market entry.
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EQM is not a mandatory requirement but serves as a mark of quality. It is a voluntary certification that enhances product reputation and consumer trust.
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Market Impact
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ECAS certification enables products to be legally marketed and sold in the UAE, ensuring they meet national standards.
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Products with the EQM can leverage the mark to differentiate themselves in the market as high-quality and reliable, potentially gaining a competitive advantage.
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Focus Areas
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Focus
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Safety, environmental impact, and regulatory compliance.
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Product quality, performance, and consumer confidence.
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