Latest figures from Dubai Customs indicate 23% surge over last four years

Dubai, UAE: Dubai continues to be the key driver in the region’s trade in fragrances and cosmetics, even as the Middle East grows in prominence as an important global destination for beauty and wellness products.

This was borne out by the latest trade figures released by Dubai Customs, at the ongoing Beautyworld Middle East 2017 – the leading trade event for beauty and wellbeing serving the wider Middle East, Central Asia, East and North Africa.

Dubai Customs-released figures indicate that Dubai imported AED 12.16 billion (US$ 3.31 billion) worth of fragrances and cosmetics in 2016, while exporting AED 1.83 billion ($ 498 million) worth and re-exporting AED 6.69 billion ($ 1.82 b) of fragrances and cosmetics over the same period. The total trade of AED 20.68 billion represents a growth of 23 percent from 2012 to 2016.

Dubai Customs stated that France, USA, Saudi Arabia, Italy and UK were the key strategic trading partners, making up 42% of the total trade in fragrances and cosmetics with Dubai. Meanwhile France, USA, Italy, UK and India formed the key source countries for Dubai’s imports of fragrances and cosmetics, making up 60% of the total. Key export and re-export markets for Dubai were: Saudi Arabia, Iran, USA, Kuwait and Oman, who together took up 48% of the Dubai’s exports.

Into its second day, the largest edition yet of Beautyworld Middle East, features 1,580 exhibitors from 60 countries. With wide international support and representations from 22 Country Pavilions, the exhibition floor continued to attract trade visitors aplenty, even as exhibitors scheduled over 100 product launches over the show;s three days. 

Among the special features gathering plenty of attention from the professional beauty audience was Hollywood Hair Artist and social media celebrity Guy Tang, sharing his techniques for creating perfectly crafted metallic tones and stunning pastel hues using Olaplex hair strengthening treatment at Centre Stage by Nazih Group – a three-day educational showcase highlighting the latest trends and developments in the beauty industry.

Another new feature is Sensorial Journey by Carita & centdegres, an immersive spa experience engaging the five senses. Trade buyers lucky enough to experience the live spa were offered a bespoke treatment involving taste, sound, touch, scent and sight, with each touchpoint customised to their needs.

Also bringing in the crowds was Quintessence – the art of perfume, where 23 exclusive hand-picked perfume brands were on show, while the artists behind the most unique scents in the market today are offering workshops into creating a truly wonderful fragrance.

Elsewhere, spa owners, managers and professionals were present for Economics of Wellness Conference, which is spotlighting strategies through which regional spa providers can secure their return on investments, and capitalise on the changing needs of the region’s sophisticated consumers.

Meanwhile, the Battle of the Barbers continued to see the best of the region’s barbers and scissor artists battle it out for two coveted titles: the UAE’s Best Barber and UAE’s Best Shave.

Other highlights at Beautyworld Middle East 2017 include the two-day Business in Beauty Summit sharing insights into the trends shaping the beauty and personal care industry in the region; and Hair Education by ghd - With the lowdown on the latest hair styling trends from industry experts. 

Nail It! By Artistic Nail Design & OPI also returns, featuring nail care professionals displaying their skills in everything from basic manicures to sculpting and nail art, while the Fragrance Station presents a selection of fragrances from a variety of exhibitors.