Marketing Medicines in the UAE: Regulations and Best Practices

Marketing Medicines in the UAE: Regulations and Best Practices After completing the medicine registration process and securing approval from the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) , pharmaceutical companies and their local agents can begin marketing their products in the UAE. However, marketing medicines—especially prescription drugs—is heavily regulated to protect patient safety, promote ethical practices, and prevent misleading claims. This article outlines the regulatory framework and best practices for pharmaceutical marketing in the UAE. 1. Who Can Market Medicines in the UAE? Only the registered Marketing Authorization Holder (MAH) or its licensed distributor can promote and market a medicine in the UAE. These entities must: Be licensed by MOHAP or relevant emirate-level health authorities (e.g., DHA, DOH) Employ qualified medical representatives Follow MOHAP guidelines for advertising and promotion 2. MOHAP Approval for Promotional Materials Be...