Dubai exported some Dh20 billion-worth of beauty products in 2017, according to a report published by Trade Arabia, quoting figures released by Dubai Customs at the Beautyworld Middle East 2018 exhibition.

Saudi Arabia is Dubai’s top destination market, with exports valued at Dh1.1 billion crossing its border, followed by the US (Dh855 million) and Oman (Dh588 million).

Imports were valued at Dh11.5 billion, with France topping the list of trade partners followed by the US and Italy.

“The statistics issued by Dubai Muncipality confirms that Dubai is the central focus for the flourishing trade across the region in beauty products and fragrances,” said Ahmed Pauwels, CEO of event organisers Messe Frankfurt Middle East. “This underlines the importance of platforms like Beautyworld Middle East, which brings regional traders together with leading global beauty and wellness brands and helps to enhance existing and forge new business and trade links.”