MENA region: advertising restrictions and specific regulations.

Geo-restrictions and why it is important to comply with them.Geo-restrictions – not just a formality, but a critical aspect of traffic arbitrage. Every country has its own laws regulating the advertising of nutraceutical products, and non-compliance with these rules can lead to serious consequences:

• Ad account bans – violating local requirements on platforms like Facebook and Google results in instant bans.
• Legal liability – in some MENA countries, illegal advertising can lead not only to fines but also to legal proceedings.
• Loss of budget and reputation – running campaigns without considering local restrictions can quickly drain your budget without real results.
• Rejection from partner networks and ad platforms – many affiliate networks and advertising platforms refuse to work with violators.
• Operating in grey areas without understanding geo-regulations – this is a gamble with a high level of risk.

A smart arbitrageur must consider local regulations, adapt offers and creatives for a specific audience instead of trying to launch a «universal» campaign. This is the only way to build a long-term and profitable business in the region.

MENA region: a complex but promising market

The MENA (Middle East and North Africa) region includes countries such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Kuwait, Qatar, Morocco, and others. This region is attractive for arbitrageurs for several reasons:

High purchasing power – especially in gulf countries like UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Qatar.
Lower competition compared to European and American markets.
High demand for health and beauty products – Especially for weight loss solutions, anti-aging cosmetics, and nutraceuticals for potency.
High trust in online shopping, but cash on delivery (COD) dominates.

However, working with this region requires knowledge of its specific restrictions and prohibitions.

Restrictions on nutra advertising in MENA

Many MENA countries have strict regulations on advertising dietary supplements, medical products, and adult goods. Here are the key points to consider:

Strict censorship in religious countries (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kuwait) – Ads containing references to explicit topics (e.g., male enhancement, breast enlargement) are prohibited.
Ban on medical claims – You cannot claim that a product cures a disease or guarantees 100% effectiveness.
Control over images – Photos of exposed bodies are prohibited, even if related to weight loss or fitness. Prohibition of misleading marketing – Words like “guaranteed results,” “healing,” and “instant effect” are not allowed.
Google and Facebook ads – Possible, but require bypass strategies and smart moderation of creatives.

How to launch ads in MENA: tips for arbitrageur

Use white-hat strategies – Avoid aggressive offers and use neutral wording.
Leverage local languages – Arabic, French (for North Africa), and English (for UAE and Kuwait).
Optimize for mobile traffic – Most users order via mobile devices.
Set up campaigns for COD (Cash on Delivery) – Online payments are less common in MENA.
Adapt your promos to the region’s culture and religion – Mistakes can be costly, as Arabic audiences tend to leave “colorful” reviews.
Understand the local sales psychology – MENA buyers love to negotiate. Offers with discounts or free shipping perform best.

Successful case studies in MENA

Weight Loss Offer in UAE
Ad Channel: Facebook Ads (via cloaking + white landing pages)
GEO: Dubai, Abu Dhabi
Average CTR: 4.7%
Conversion Rate: 12%
Average Order Value: $79
Key Strategy: Focus on natural ingredients and European production

Hair Growth Product in Egypt
Ad Channel: TikTok + Google Ads (via affiliate network)
GEO: Cairo, Alexandria
Average CTR: 5.2%
Conversion Rate: 10%
Average Order Value: $45
Key Strategy: Using local influencers to build trust

Male Potency Offer in Saudi Arabia
Ad Channel: Native Ads (Taboola, Outbrain)
GEO: Riyadh, Jeddah
Average CTR: 3.9%
Conversion Rate: 8.5%
Average Order Value: $99
Key Strategy: Emphasis on “Eastern herbs” and natural ingredients

Conclusions

MENA is a challenging yet highly profitable region for arbitrageurs, especially in the nutra niche. The key to success is complying with local regulations, adapting creatives to the audience, and working with reliable partners.

If done right, you can achieve ROI of 200-300% or even higher!

Want to learn or improve your traffic arbitrage skills?

We invite you to join Academy Aff1, our new educational project! Get knowledge and hands-on experience for FREE! 🎓🔥

Share this article