Only licensed plastic surgeons or dermatologists can inject Botox or dermal fillers. Dermatologists must also be granted permission by their local health authority to give the injections.
It is illegal to perform these procedures outside a specialised and licensed facility.
In 2011, the Ministry of Health also banned any form of laser treatment in salons and beauty parlours. All laser treatments must be done by a dermatologist or a technician under the supervision of a dermatologist.
All cosmetic clinics must display their licence in a visible location and doctors must wear their badges and carry their medical licences at all times. Clinics and doctors are licensed by the local health authority and dermal fillers are registered by the Ministry of Health.
To check whether a product is registered in the UAE or whether a clinic or doctor is qualified, patients can call the following numbers:
Ministry of Health (Dubai and the Northern Emirates): 800 1111
Dubai Health Authority: 800 342
Health Authority Abu Dhabi: 800 800.
* Manal Ismail
