1️⃣ Introduction
The UAE ECAS (Emirates Conformity Assessment Scheme) energy efficiency certification is a mandatory market access requirement for high-energy-consumption products entering the UAE.
This guide summarizes the core process, applicable standards, certificate validity, and key compliance steps based on the latest 2025 updates to help exporters and manufacturers ensure smooth customs clearance.
| Certification Aspect | Key Points (2025) |
|---|---|
| Full Name | ECAS (Emirates Conformity Assessment Scheme) & EESL (Emirates Energy Efficiency Label) |
| Supervising Authority | Emirates Authority for Standardization and Metrology (ESMA) |
| Certification Nature | Mandatory for high-energy-consumption products within regulated categories |
| Core Requirements | Must pass energy efficiency testing and affix EESL label before sale |
| Certificate Validity | ECAS Conformity Certificate (CoC): 1 year Energy Efficiency Registration (EESL): 1–3 years |
2️⃣ 1. Household Appliances
Includes air conditioners, refrigerators, washing machines, and other major home appliances.
Applicable Standard Example:
UAE.S 5001:2021 — Energy Efficiency and Labeling Requirements for Air Conditioners.
3️⃣ 2. Lighting Products
Includes LED lamps, electronic ballasts, and luminaires.
Applicable Standard Example:
UAE.S 5002:2019 — Energy Efficiency Standard for LED Lamps.
Note: These standards are periodically updated by ESMA. Before starting, always verify the latest version of applicable standards through the UAE MoIAT or ESMA official database.
4️⃣ Step 1: Confirm Certification Requirements
Check the latest mandatory product list published by ESMA to confirm if your product category is subject to ECAS or EESL certification.
This ensures compliance before investing in testing or shipment.
5️⃣ Step 2: Select an Authorized Certification Body (OCP)
Submit your certification application through an ESMA-approved certification body, often referred to as a Notified Body.
These bodies are responsible for verifying test results, documentation, and label compliance.
6️⃣ Step 3: Prepare Technical Documentation
A complete and accurate technical file is essential for ECAS review.
Typical required documents include:
Product Technical Specification Sheet
Circuit Diagrams
List of Critical Components
Energy Efficiency Test Reports
User Manual (Arabic and/or English)
Tip: Ensure your documentation matches the tested sample model exactly — inconsistencies can lead to rejection or delays.
7️⃣ Step 4: Product Testing & Compliance Verification
Samples must be tested at an ISO/IEC 17025-accredited laboratory recognized by ESMA.
Testing typically covers:
Energy Efficiency Performance
Electrical Safety (IEC 60335, IEC 60598, etc.)
EMC Compliance (CISPR 32/35)
Environmental Safety (RoHS/REACH, if applicable)
Testing must follow UAE-adopted versions of international standards with any national deviations clearly marked.
8️⃣ Step 5: Label Registration & Certificate Issuance
After successful testing and review:
The ECAS Conformity Certificate (CoC) is issued.
The product is registered in the EESL database.
The Energy Efficiency Label must be affixed on the product and packaging.
The EESL label displays:
Energy grade (1–5 stars)
Product model & power rating
ESMA registration number
Arabic + English bilingual content
9️⃣ Validity Periods
ECAS Conformity Certificate (CoC): Valid for 1 year
EESL Energy Efficiency Registration: Valid for 1–3 years, depending on product category
Renewal Tips:
Apply for renewal at least 30 days before expiration.
Renewal requires confirmation that product specifications and energy performance remain unchanged.
Plan Early: ECAS and testing can take several weeks — plan certification before shipment.
Label Accuracy: Always use the latest version of the EESL label as per 2025 MoIAT design.
Authorized Representative: Non-UAE manufacturers must appoint a UAE Local Authorized Representative (LAR) to manage certification and regulatory communication.
Language Requirement: Product label and user manual must include Arabic; bilingual English/Arabic versions are accepted.
| Step | Action | Key Responsibility |
|---|---|---|
| 1️⃣ | Confirm Product Scope | Manufacturer / Exporter |
| 2️⃣ | Choose Certification Body | Manufacturer / UAE Representative |
| 3️⃣ | Submit Technical File | Manufacturer |
| 4️⃣ | Conduct Energy Efficiency Testing | Accredited Laboratory |
| 5️⃣ | Obtain CoC & Register EESL Label | Certification Body / ESMA |
| 6️⃣ | Affix Label & Maintain Compliance | Manufacturer / Importer |
Q1: Which products require ECAS energy efficiency certification?
A1: Mainly air conditioners, refrigerators, washing machines, LED lamps, and other high-energy-consumption products.
Q2: How long is the ECAS certificate valid?
A2: The CoC is valid for 1 year, while EESL registration can last 1–3 years depending on product type.
Q3: Can foreign manufacturers apply directly?
A3: No. A UAE Local Authorized Representative (LAR) is required to handle the application and communication with ESMA.
Q4: What if the product label doesn’t include Arabic?
A4: The product will fail inspection. Arabic text is mandatory on both the product label and user manual.
Q5: How can ECAS-certified products be verified?
A5: All approved products can be verified through the MoIAT/ESMA online database by entering the certificate or label number.
BLUEASIA Certification Consulting Services
Email: king.guo@cblueasia.com
Tel: +86 13534225140
BLUEASIA specializes in UAE ECAS & EESL certification consulting — helping exporters reduce testing costs, ensure compliance, and accelerate product entry into the UAE market.
Stay compliant, stay competitive.
Related News
