A company’s credibility hinges on many things — from the quality of services it provides to customer testimonials and reviews. Another way to boost a business image is by getting a relevant ISO certification. But what is it? And how to get ISO certification in the UAE?
What’s an ISO certification?
ISO certification is an internationally recognized seal of compliance with standards set by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). The non-governmental entity is known for crafting stringent quality, safety, and efficiency standards — and upholding these can substantially boost a company’s reputation and appeal to prospective customers, investors and even employees.
Beyond enhancing an organization’s image, getting an ISO certification ultimately improves quality management and operational effectiveness.
Note that an ISO certification is issued by a verified third-party authority. ISO does not perform any certification.
Common ISO certifications in the UAE
If you’re an organization seeking to bolster your credibility, it’s not only a matter of knowing how to get it. Just as important is understanding which certfication/s should you obtain.
In the UAE, these are the most common ISO certifications companies seek.
ISO 9001 (Quality management)
This standard lays down the foundation for a robust quality management system (QMS). Applicable to organizations no matter the size or sector, it ensures that a business has efficient processes and trained staff. This helps the business guarantee a consistent delivery of high-quality products or services.
ISO 14001 (Environmental management)
Sustainability is a paramount concern in the UAE, which hosted the landmark COP28 in 2023. This standard focuses on environmental management systems (EMS), offering organizations a framework to improve their sustainability efforts. ISO 14001 helps companies enhance resource usage, waste management and stakeholder engagement in environmental initiatives.
ISO 22301 (Business continuity management)
A business continuity management system (BCMS) lets organizations prepare for, respond to and recover from disruptive incidents. Gaining an ISO 22301 certification means a business is resilient and has a swift recovery time after disruptions and emergencies.
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How to get an ISO certification in the UAE
Indeed, an ISO certification can substantially elevate the stature of a business. If you own one or run an organization in the UAE, here’s how you can obtain this seal of approval.
Step 1: Conduct a gap analysis
Begin by evaluating how you currently fare according to the ISO certification you want to achieve. For example, if you’re aiming for ISO 14001, assess your organization’s environmental management system. Doing so will help you identify areas you must improve to meet the ISO criteria. Companies often tap a consultant for an unbiased assessment. This third-party professional will provide a detailed report containing actions you must undertake.
Step 2: Implement the necessary changes
Once you receive the detailed gap analysis, it’s now time to implement the recommendations. This entails changing your existing processes and designing and introducing new ones. You must also train your employees about the ISO standards. During this process, it’s essential to document these changes. The third-party certification body will review that document to gauge your compliance with the criteria.
Step 3: Choose a reputable ISO certification body
Once your organization has implemented the necessary changes, choose a reputable ISO certification body in the UAE to conduct the certification audit. The audit is performed in two stages. First is a preliminary review. Then, you will be given a detailed examination of your processes and compliance documentation.
If your business doesn’t pass the audit, the auditors will give you a Corrective Action Request (CAR) that points out non-conformities. You’ll have a grace period to correct these issues.
Step 4: Receive your ISO certification
Once the audit has been successful, the ISO certification body will provide you with your ISO certification. This certification not only boosts your business credibility but also leads to new market opportunities. You can use it as a competitive advantage, gaining trust from customers and investors alike.
Frequently asked questions
What’s an ISO certification?
ISO certification is an internationally recognized seal signifying compliance with standards set by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).
What are the benefits of ISO certification?
ISO certification boosts your business’s reputation. It helps attract customers, investors and prospective employees by demonstrating commitment to adhering to global standards.
What are some common ISO certifications sought in the UAE?
In the UAE, popular ISO certifications include ISO 9001 for quality management, ISO 14001 for environmental management and ISO 22301 for business continuity management.
Does ISO perform the certification?
No, ISO does not conduct certifications. A verified third-party authority issues the certification after a rigorous audit process.
How long does ISO certification last?
ISO certifications have a validity period (some last three years). After which, you will need recertification. You must also continuously adhere to the standards to maintain your certification.
What is the cost of getting ISO certified in the UAE?
Costs vary depending on the type of certification. For example, ISO 9001 certification can range from AED3,000 to nearly AE 5,000. Prices may also differ based on the size and complexity of your organization.
Final thoughts
Achieving an ISO certification is a significant milestone. However, it’s just the beginning. A certification lasts only a few years. Hence, you must maintain it, continuously adhere to the set standards and undertake recertification. All this entails periodically assessing and enhancing your processes.
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