There has been tremendous growth in the global and the UAE pharmaceutical market as growing demand has been complemented by scientific advances leading to product innovation with newer and potentially more useful medicines. This demand and supply-side growth in the overall market has been accompanied by the development of niche markets which are estimated to have experienced comparatively faster growth.
In the year 2018, the sales in the pharmaceutical market in the UAE are estimated to be valued at around USD 3.1 billion. The market size is expected to have improved from around USD 2.4 billion in 2015. The majority, around 86 percent of total pharmaceutical sales in 2018, were sales of prescription medicines. The UAE is estimated to have traded around Dh 14.9 billion worth of products as part of pharmaceutical foodstuffs (HS 30) from the world market in 2018, according to data from the UAE Federal Customs Authority. Primary sources of imports in 2018 included Germany, the USA, France and Switzerland. UAE business is also projected to have exported around Dh1.2 billion and re-exported around Dh3.8 billion worth of produces in pharmaceutical products (HS 30) to the global market in 2018. Key export markets include Saudi Arabia and Iraq while main re-export markets in 2018 included Iraq, Kuwait, and Bahrain, according to data from the UAE Federal Customs Authority.
Niche markets such as the development of orphan medicine, mHealth, and halal pharmaceuticals could provide potential possibilities across the value chain of pharmacies. While many companies in the Emirates might specialize in developing these types of drugs, other companies might also profit from local distribution and sales of freshly prepared drugs on the UAE market.
Back to topStarting a Pharmacy Business in the UAE
The healthcare business in the UAE is no longer on the waiting list. As you have read above the healthcare sector has been drastically expanding. Moreover, it is expected to grow by AED 73.52 billion by 2020. However, before setting up a pharmacy business in the UAE, you need to take care of a few essentials. Here’s the list-
- Location.
- Competitors in the market.
- Local sponsor to avail of license.
- Layout and structure plan of the pharmacy.
The process to set up a pharma business is simple. They are as follows-
- Register your business and get a license from the Dubai Health Authority (DHA).
- Apply to the Health Regulation Department.
- Get a Certified Pharmacist Manager.
- Register with the Municipality and Regional Health Authority.
Once you finish the entire procedure of registration, you are eligible enough to open a pharmacy business in the UAE.
Ending Note
Concrete variables such as rising population and earnings have resulted in enhanced demand in the UAE and around the globe for pharmaceutical products. On the supply side, scientific progress has also resulted in the development of drugs for the treatment of new diseases.
We at Commitbiz LLC can help you set up a business in the UAE. Our business setup consultants have years of experience in this field and can make the process hassle-free. Contact us today to know more.
Back to topWhat type of license is required to set up a pharmaceutical industry in the UAE?
Health authority pharmacy license
How much does it cost for setting up a pharma industry in UAE?
The cost of starting a pharmacy varies depending on the location, inventory, and employees. To open a pharmacy, you'll require between AED 450,000 and AED 700,000.
What is the expected growth of the UAE pharmaceutical market by 2030?
According to the world bank projections, the pharmaceutical market in UAE will reach almost 11.1 million by 2030.
Why there is a rapid growth in the UAE's pharmaceutical industry?
The UAE pharmaceutical industry is fast growing to satisfy the changing requirements of a constantly rising population.
What are the dedicated pharmaceutical free zones in UAE?
The dedicated pharmaceutical free zones in Dubai are
- Healthcare City
- Jebel Ali Free Zone
- Dubai Science Park


