Italy Strengthens Position as UAE’s Key Partner with Cosmetics Trade Growth of 29% and 8% Market Share as of September 2024, Compared to 2023

Italy Shines at ‘Italian Beauty’ Event in Collaboration with Cosmoprof and Cosmetica Italia, Hosted at Atlantis The Royal, Celebrating Excellence in Beauty and Cosmetics.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 3 February 2025

The Italian Trade Agency (ITA), in collaboration with Cosmoprof and Cosmetica Italia, proudly showcased Italy’s excellence in the beauty and personal care industry at a prestigious event held at the iconic Atlantis The Royal. The event will serve as a remarkable platform for Italy to showcase its contributions as a key trading partner to the UAE and beyond, spotlighting renowned Italian brands and institutions like KIKO Milano Cosmetics, Madi International specialising in salon products and the exclusive distributor of Quattro Professional, Kemon, and Nashi Hair, as well as Grand Stores, the exclusive distributor of Diego Dalla Palma and Teaology. Rudy Profumi and Istituto Marangoni also will be supporting the event.

Italy’s trade relationship with the UAE continues to flourish, particularly in the beauty and cosmetics sector. As of December 2023, Italy ranked as the 4th largest exporter to the UAE, following France, India, and the USA, holding a 7% market share with a 13% year-on-year increase in exports compared to 2022. By September 2024, Italy retained its 4th place position, with its market share growing to 8% and exports experiencing a remarkable 29% rise compared to the same period in 2023. These figures underscore Italy’s robust trade performance and its increasing prominence in the UAE’s dynamic marketplace.

The event, curated by Cosmoprof, Cosmetica Italia, and the Italian Trade Agency, highlighted a handpicked selection of premier beauty brands and products that embody Italy’s renowned craftsmanship and innovation. Since 1967, Cosmetica Italia has been the definitive voice of the Italian cosmetics industry and a driving force behind Cosmoprof Worldwide Bologna—the world’s leading cosmetics trade fair. Representing nearly 650 companies across the supply chain, including packaging, raw materials, and machinery manufacturers, the association accounts for 90% of the industry’s turnover in Italy and champions the nation’s beauty sector on a global stage. Attendees explored the latest offerings from Italian brands and institutions, reinforcing Italy’s position as a global leader in beauty and personal care while underscoring its unwavering commitment to excellence.

“The cosmetic sector embodies the essence of what makes Italian lifestyle and Italian products renowned worldwide: the research for beauty carried out through meticulous innovation and attention to personal wellness. This innovative event, coordinated by the Italian Trade Agency, showcases that Italian companies are able to bring a great contribution to the flourishing luxury, beauty and personal care market of the UAE, where Made in Italy is much appreciated,” said Lorenzo Fanara, The Ambassador of Italy to the UAE.

Valerio Soldani, The Italian Trade Commissioner to the UAE, added, “The 29% surge in Italy’s cosmetic exports to the UAE by September 2024 underscores the immense potential and mutual benefits of our bilateral trade. This event is a pivotal platform to showcase Italy’s excellence in beauty and personal care. With the UAE’s strong focus on innovation and luxury, Italian brands are uniquely positioned to meet the evolving demands of this dynamic market.”

The stature of this event aligns seamlessly with Italy’s dedication to innovation and excellence. The event featured engaging discussions, product launches, and networking opportunities, further solidifying Italy’s reputation as a global leader in the beauty industry.

Enrico Zannini, General Manager, BolognaFiere Cosmoprof SpA, commented, “It is a pleasure for us to take part in the Italian Beauty Event. Being the leaders in B2B events for the cosmetics industry, we are pleased to meet beauty stakeholders in Dubai, in order to reinforce business relationships and discuss new partnerships and collaborations on the occasion of the next edition of Cosmoprof Worldwide Bologna, which will be held from 20 to 23 March in Bologna.”

Fabio Franchina, Vice President of Cosmetica Italia, said, “Cosmetica Italia is proud to join this event, which celebrates not only our tradition but also the innovation of Made in Italy. The Italian cosmetics industry is an international benchmark for its excellence, which stems from the craftsmanship and ingenuity typical of our Country. Each Italian product expresses unique values: innovation, quality, style and design, with a constant focus on research and sustainability. The ability to anticipate global trends and commitment to research represents the core of our industry, as demonstrated by the 29 per cent increase in Italian exports to the United Arab Emirates in 2024. This success confirms the growing appreciation for Italian excellence all over the world.”

The Italian Beauty showcase will highlight Italy’s excellence in beauty and cosmetics through an impressive lineup of brands. A few names including KIKO Milano will present its trendsetting cosmetics, while MADI International highlights its role in connecting Italian brands to the UAE. Moellhausen will showcase expertise in fragrance and raw materials, and Rudy Profumi will feature its luxurious personal care products. Diego Dalla Palma and Teaology will present cutting-edge makeup and tea-infused skincare, while Istituto Marangoni highlights its commitment to training future creative talent. Together, they celebrate Italy’s innovation and cultural ties with the UAE.

By collaborating with Cosmoprof and Cosmetica Italia, Italy celebrated its craftsmanship and innovation in the beauty industry while reaffirming its commitment to deepening economic and cultural ties with the UAE. This partnership represents a significant milestone in the growing relationship between the two nations, paving the way for a vibrant future in the beauty and personal care sector.