UAE: Business is looking good for UK cosmetics firms in the Middle East

beautyworld-makeup-WEBA Blackburn businesswoman is among an increasing number of British entrepreneurs looking to the beauty industry in the Middle East.

Salma Chaudhury is the director of Halal Cosmetics, and she is currently promoting her range at the Beautyworld Middle East exhibition in Dubai, until 30 May.

Taking place at the Dubai World Trade Centre, this is the 18th year of Beautyworld, and UK companies are back in increasing numbers, with the support of UK Trade & Investment in the region.

Salma said: “Our products are not only halal even in its strictest sense, but also free from all types of artificial and harmful chemicals including parabens and sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS).

“Over the years we have seen a consistent increase in demands for halal, and parabens and SLS- free cosmetics, and we believe the demand can only go higher in the UAE. We are excited to launch into the GCC cosmetics industry an ethical beauty solution”.

Ranjana Abraham, UKTI creative industries sector lead, added: “I am delighted to welcome UK companies in the Beautyworld Middle East 2013.

“A few years ago only a handful of UK companies participated in this show and I am happy to announce that this year we have a record 19 UK companies exhibiting their products and services .

“A recent report shows that the value of cosmetics market in the UAE is expected to reach Dhs514m by 2014 and the organic cosmetics industry saw a growth of 30 per cent in 2012. Therefore, it is no surprise that there is an increase in UK participation in Beautyworld Middle East.”

Ahmed Pauwels, chief executive officer, Epoc Messe Frankfurt, organiser of Beautyworld Middle East, said: “This show has grown to become one of the largest exhibitions of its kind for the industry.

“This year the growth has continued and the show is 27% larger than the previous edition. Participation from UK companies at the show has more than doubled since 2011, highlighting the increased opportunities for UK companies to strengthen their presence in the Middle East.”

Alison Hornsby, account manager, Birmingham Chamber of Commerce & Industry, said: “Beautyworld Middle East has been the exhibition of choice for UK companies for the last 17 years with the UK Pavilion steadily growing. It is considered to be the best route into the region for companies involved in all areas of the beauty industry. I wish UK companies all the best.”