Spending on Color cosmetics in UAE 38% higher than in France

Research from Euromonitor International has revealed that spending on color cosmetics in the UAE is considerably higher than that of many European countries including France (38% higher) and UK (6% higher). This shows that the UAE represents an important market for these prod-ucts within a global context.

In 2009 women in the UAE spent an average of AED 270 (US$73) on colour cosmetics*

The beauty and personal care market in the UAE and the Middle East in general is dominated by international brands, premiumisation and an expanding retail landscape with colour cosmetics, hair care, fragrances and skin care the most significant categories in value terms.

Ms Elaine O’Connell, Senior Show Manager, Beautyworld Middle East, said: “Despite the more difficult economic climate, premium products continue to do well here. Taking care of one’s ap-pearance will always remain a high priority for women, particularly here in the UAE due to the higher disposable income who will forego other luxuries in order to look good and feel confident.”

Countries such as Iran and Saudi Arabia are enjoying rapid growth in the beauty and personal care industry due to their large populations and diversified economies. Along with the UAE, they represent the biggest markets in terms of overall and per capita sales in the industry and this is set to continue.

The import and export arena for beauty and personal care products in Dubai is high, with the growing retail landscape driving this. Trade fairs such as the annual Beautyworld Middle East also influence this development with new products and services being introduced to the region for the first time via this platform.

It remains to be seen how the beauty and personal care market will fair in 2011, but with the cur-rent trends which are likely to continue it is certain that the UAE and surrounding region will con-tinue to flourish within these categories.