Sun Care in the United Arab Emirates

PROSPECTS

Protecting children from the sun

Sun protection and sun safety for children are growing topics in the region, and awareness is increasing that products need “broad spectrum protection” to block out both UVA and UVB rays. Parents are told that sun protection should be reapplied every two hours, but should also be reapplied after heavy sweating or swimming.

A desire for fair skin – avoidance of the sun

There tends to be a desire for fair skin amongst some female Asian expatriates. Rather than using sun protection, some members of this community opt for umbrellas to block the sun; worried that any sun exposure could darken their skin.

Consumers look for innovative products

In the United Arab Emirates, sweating profusely is the norm, and the hot weather can worsen skin conditions such as rosacea. The desert climate, with intense heat and frigid air conditioning, as well as humidity and ubiquitous dust, is bad for the skin.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Beiersdorf Middle East and Playtex Products lead sun care

The leading position in sun care in value terms in 2018 was maintained by Beiersdorf Middle East, driven by its popular brand Nivea Sun, which has enjoyed a long presence in the market. Dermatologists influence sales of sun protection products, and even suggest brands to buy.

Nivea offers vending

Consumers who visited Yas Water World at Abu Dhabi in summer 2018 were able to pick up Nivea sun block from a fun blue vending machine located outdoors near the beach. Prices were close to those in chemists/pharmacies, and there was a wide variety of product types.

Major promotions

In 2018, major promotions for sun care products were seen in chained chemists/pharmacies, such as Aster Pharmacy, Life Pharmacy and BinSina Pharmacy. Promotions mainly included premium sun protection brands, and usually offered buy-one-get-one-free.

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