When procuring explosion-proof electrical equipment for hazardous locations in the UAE, one of the most common questions engineers and procurement professionals ask is: “Should we specify ATEX or IECEx certified equipment?” While both certification schemes govern the use of electrical equipment in explosive atmospheres, they differ in scope, recognition, and application. Understanding these differences is critical to ensuring regulatory compliance, personnel safety, and operational continuity in your facility.

What is ATEX Certification?

ATEX is a European Union directive — its name derived from the French ATmosphères EXplosibles — that governs equipment and protective systems intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres. It comprises two directives: the ATEX Equipment Directive (2014/34/EU), which covers manufacturers, and the ATEX Workplace Directive (1999/92/EC), which covers employers. Any electrical or mechanical equipment sold within the European Union for use in hazardous areas must carry the ATEX marking.

ATEX certification is granted by Notified Bodies — independent third-party organizations approved by EU member states — and the certified equipment carries the distinctive Ex hexagon mark along with specific category and group classifications.

What is IECEx Certification?

IECEx stands for the International Electrotechnical Commission System for Certification to Standards Relating to Equipment for Use in Explosive Atmospheres. Unlike ATEX, which is a regional EU directive, IECEx is a globally recognized certification scheme administered by the IEC — a body whose standards are adopted by over 80 countries worldwide, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Australia, and South Africa.

IECEx certification is issued by IECEx-recognized Certification Bodies (ExCBs) and involves rigorous testing of the equipment against IEC 60079 series standards. The IECEx Certificate of Conformity (CoC) is internationally recognized, making it the preferred certification for global projects and multinational oil & gas companies operating across multiple jurisdictions.

Key Differences Between ATEX and IECEx

While both schemes reference similar IEC 60079 technical standards, their key differences lie in scope and recognition. ATEX is mandatory within the EU and is a legal compliance requirement, whereas IECEx is a voluntary but internationally respected certification scheme. In the UAE, IECEx is the most widely referenced and accepted standard, particularly in projects governed by ADNOC, ARAMCO, and other regional national oil companies. ATEX-certified equipment is generally also accepted in the UAE, but project specifications and client requirements will ultimately dictate which certification is required.

Another notable difference is mutual recognition. IECEx has a broader global acceptance, while ATEX recognition is primarily limited to EU member states. For equipment supplied to the UAE and broader GCC region, IECEx certification is typically the stronger and more universally accepted credential.

Which Certification Should UAE Industries Specify?

For projects in the UAE, particularly in the oil & gas, petrochemical, and offshore sectors, IECEx certification is the gold standard. Most ADNOC-affiliated projects and EPC contractors working in Abu Dhabi and Dubai specify IECEx-certified equipment in their material requisitions and technical specifications. However, for equipment imported from European manufacturers, ATEX certification is common and is generally accepted provided it meets the project’s technical requirements.

The safest approach is to specify equipment that carries both ATEX and IECEx certification — a dual-certified product that satisfies both regional and international compliance requirements.

How Team Switchgear and Control LLC Can Help

At Team Switchgear and Control LLC, all our explosion-proof panels, junction boxes, local control stations, and switchgear are designed, built, and certified to meet ATEX and IECEx standards. Our in-house engineering team works closely with clients, EPCs, and consultants to ensure every product delivered is fully compliant with project specifications and UAE regulatory requirements. Contact our technical team today to discuss your hazardous area equipment needs.