UAE Type Approvals (TDRA)

The United Arab Emirates has one of the most structured and efficient type approval regimes in the region, managed by the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) (formerly TRA).

Here is the breakdown of the current TDRA Type Approval framework.

1. Authority & Scope

• Regulator: TDRA (Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority).

• Scope: Mandatory for all Radio and Telecommunications Terminal Equipment (RTTE). This includes any device that emits radio waves (Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, RFID, NFC) or connects to the public telecommunications network.

• Exemptions: Devices for personal use (imported by individuals), but commercial imports strictly require type approval.

2. Approval Levels (Risk-Based)

TDRA categorizes equipment into three levels based on risk. This determines the lead time and sample requirements.

3. The Process

The process is fully digital but requires a local presence.

1. Supplier Registration: You must be a registered Telecom Supplier with TDRA to apply.

   • Note for Consultants: If you do not have a UAE trade license, you must use a local importer/distributor (Local Representative) who holds a valid TDRA Supplier Registration.

2. Application: Submit via the TDRA online portal (using UAE Pass).

3. Documentation:

   • Datasheet/Technical Specifications.

   • Test Reports: ILAC-accredited lab reports for RF (Radio), EMC (Electromagnetic Compatibility), and Safety/Health (SAR).

   • Declaration of Conformity (DoC) from the manufacturer.

   • External Photos of the device.

4. Samples: Only required for Level 3 or if specifically requested by the engineer for Level 2.

   • Mobile Phones: Require specific testing for Emergency Broadcast and Early Warning Systems (EWS).

4. Validity & Fees

• Certificate Validity: 3 Years (Renewable).

• Supplier Registration Validity: 5 Years.

• Official Fees (Approximate):

  • Application Review: 500 AED

  • Certificate Issuance: 200 AED

  • Total Basic Cost: ~700 AED (excluding testing fees if local testing is required).

  • Local Testing Fees: Apply for Level 3 devices (e.g., Mobile Phone testing can cost ~2,500+ AED depending on bands).

5. Labeling Requirements (Critical)

TDRA has strict labeling rules.

• Placement: The label must be on the product box (packaging) and the equipment itself (if size permits).¹⁰ It is also recommended to include it in the software (e-label) or user manual.

• Format:

  • The label must include the TDRA Logo.

  • It must show the Registration No. (The device approval number).

  • It must show the Dealer No. (The local supplier’s ID).

  • New: It often requires a QR code linking to the approval on the TDRA website (verify this with the latest certificate issuance as they updated the format recently).

• Aesthetic: The label can be black and white.

6. Recent “Gotchas” for Consultants

• Mobile Phones: TDRA is extremely strict on Advanced Mobile Location (AML) and Emergency Broadcast functionality.¹³ If the sample fails the local emergency alert test, the approval will be rejected.

• 5G Bands: Ensure your test reports cover the specific 5G NR bands allocated in the UAE (n78 is common, but verify allocations).

• Name Change: Ensure all Declaration of Conformity documents address “TDRA” or “United Arab Emirates” specifically if possible, though generic EU DoCs are often accepted if the standards align (RED Directive).