Northwest Horticultural Council
Export Manual
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
Capital: Abu DhabiPopulation: 10,032,213 (2024)
Currency: 1 Dirham
Official Language(s): Arabic
I. CHEMICAL MAXIMUM RESIDUE LEVELS (MRLs)
The NHC’s MRL Database is a resource only available to U.S. growers, packers, and shippers of apples, pears, and sweet cherries who are located in the states of Idaho, Oregon, and Washington, and those that work with them. It is intended to be an initial guide for those U.S. Pacific Northwest companies interested in exporting tree fruit to select markets of interest. Commercially important information should be rechecked and verified with knowledgeable parties in the country of interest prior to sales or shipment. This Database utilizes global MRL data partially funded by the USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service and managed by FoodChain ID. By accessing and using the NHC’s MRL Database, you acknowledge and agree that you have read and accept the foregoing terms and conditions of use and agree to be bound by them as an express condition to your continued use of the Database.
To access the MRL Database, click here.
II. CHEMICALS AND ADDITIVE INFORMATION
A. Chemical residue standards:
The United Arab Emirates defers to Codex. When there is no established Codex MRL, EU MRLs may be applied. When there is no established Codex or EU MRL, a default MRL of 0.01 ppm applies.
B. Monitoring chemical residues:
The United Arab Emirates Health Authorities upgraded their labs by importing new equipment for monitoring chemical residues and have started running tests more frequently.
C. Restrictions on use of waxes:
United Arab Emirates permits the use of beeswax, candelilla wax, carnauba wax, and shellac wax on fresh fruits as approved under Gulf Cooperation Council technical regulations 2500/2015 (E).
III. ORGANIC FRUIT REGULATIONS
Labeling Organic Food: UAE.S GSO CAC GL 32 :2008 “Guidelines for the production, processing, labeling and marketing of organically produced foods” stipulates a product claimed as organic must include an organic logo and be accompanied by a government competent authority certificate. The United States Department of Agriculture organic logo (USDA Organic) and certificate is accepted by UAE authorities. If a product is organic but not claimed on the package, no certificate or attestation is required. Additional information can be found on the UAE Ministry’s website.
IV. TARIFFS
None.
V. NON-TARIFF BARRIERS
A. Labeling requirements:
Shipping cartons must state:
1. Product and brand name
2. Net weight
3. Country of origin
4. Packer’s name and address
In addition, apple cartons must be labeled with:
1. Variety name
2. Class (grade)
3. Size (count)
The UAE accepts English-only labels and does not enforce the Arabic-label requirement. However, bilingual labels or Arabic stickers are recommended.
Production/expiry dates are not required for bulk cartons of fresh fruits and vegetables.
If product is prepackaged for direct sale to consumers additional labeling requirements apply.
B. Licenses and quotas:
None.
C. Currency Issues:
None.
D. Pest and plant disease restrictions:
A Phytosanitary Certificate is required.
E. Other trade restrictions:
A Country of Origin Certificate must accompany the shipment.
The UAE has adopted with minor modification the Codex Alimentarius Apple Grade Standard.
VI. MARKETING REPRESENTATIVES FOR PACIFIC NORTHWEST TREE FRUIT INDUSTRY:
Washington Apple Commission:
Nina Halal
Arab Marketing & Finance Inc. (AMFI)
Beirut, Lebanon
Voice: 011-961-1 740378
Fax: 011-961-1-740393
E-mail: halal@cyberia.net.lb
Pear Bureau Northwest:
Simon Bakht
Arab Marketing & Finance Inc. (AMFI)
Beirut, Lebanon
Voice: 011-961-1 740378
Fax: 011-961-1-740393
E-mail: amfime@cyberia.net.lb
