Our Sustainable & Ethical Standards
At Mostadaam, sustainability and ethics are not just values, they are requirements. Through our groundbreaking Sustainable Standards framework, we reward sellers who commit to real impact and empower buyers to make truly conscious choices. Every action on Mostadaam helps shape a more ethical, sustainable future.
Sustainability and ethical practices are the foundation of our marketplace and the pillars that drive our mission. Our commitment goes beyond words, it is embedded in every product we offer, every brand we showcase, and every interaction we foster. By promoting responsible practices, we believe that we, our partners, and our customers can collectively create meaningful positive change for the environment, society, and the economy.
We've created a world first framework called Mostadaam's Sustainable Standards, ensuring that both sellers and buyers align with our vision of a better, more resilient world.
Mostadaam's Sustainable & Ethical Standards
Mostadaam has pioneered a comprehensive system of sustainability and ethics standards, the first of its kind globally. Our Sustainable Standards cover six major categories:
1. Environmental Responsibility
Commitment to reducing environmental impact through sustainable practices.
2. Ethical Business Practices
Fair treatment of workers and ethical sourcing of materials.
3. Circular Economy Models
Designing waste out of the system and keeping products in use.
4. Social Empowerment
Supporting communities and promoting equality.
5. Governance
Transparent and accountable business operations.
6. Alignment with SDGs
Supporting the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
This framework isn't just about business, it's about building stronger, fairer economies and protecting the planet for future generations. Each standard is a promise: clear, verifiable, and visible to buyers who want to know the true story behind every purchase.
The World's First Incentivized Sustainable & Ethical Marketplace
For Sellers and Brands
The More You Sustain, The More You Gain
- Sellers must meet at least 4 of the 43 standards to join the platform
- Every additional standard achieved unlocks lower commissions, greater visibility, and premium benefits
- On Mostadaam, every product tells a verified story of sustainability and ethics, clearly, proudly, and transparently
For Buyers
At Mostadaam, transparency turns into trust
- These verified standards appear as small icons next to each product, service, or brand across our platform and mobile app
- Simply tap or hover over an icon to understand the real meaning behind each value
- Shop with confidence, knowing the impact your choices make
Mostadaam doesn't just recognize sustainability, we accelerate it.
Mostadaam Sustainability Standards
Plastic-Free
Products designed without any plastic materials to reduce pollution and protect ecosystems.
Applies to: Products, packaging, business practices
- Material composition documentation and confirm the complete absence of plastic.
- Plastic-free certifications.
- Alternative materials specifications (bamboo, glass, stainless steel, or biodegradable materials..etc).
- Partner with others to create or promote plastic-free solutions across the value chain.
Toxic-Free
Products free from harmful chemicals that risk human health or environment.
Applies to: Cleaning products, cosmetics
- Ingredient transparency lists detailing non-toxic, organic, or natural ingredients
- Relevant certifications ensuring the product is non-toxic and meets safety standards
- Third-party test results or analysis confirming the absence of toxic substances
Carbon Neutral
The product, service, or brand achieves a net-zero carbon footprint by offsetting or reducing emissions.
Applies to: Products, services, brands
- Carbon neutrality certifications from a recognized body confirming carbon neutrality
- Participation in verified carbon offset programs that reduce or remove emissions.
- Emission reduction strategies across operations, supply chain, or product lifecycle
Biodegradable
Products that naturally decompose into harmless substances over time.
Applies to: Materials, packaging
- Biodegradability certifications that confirm the product or material meets recognized environmental standards
- Lab test results demonstrating the rate and extent to which the product breaks down naturally over time
- Material explanations that clearly describe the components used and how they decompose in a safe, eco-friendly manner
Eco-Friendly
Products are designed to minimize environmental impact throughout their entire lifecycle, or are made using environmentally responsible production methods.
Applies to: Products, services
- Natural-origin product documentation confirming the use of natural materials and ingredients
- Energy-efficient product designs that help reduce energy use and carbon emissions during product operation
- ISO 14020/14024 certifications verifying environmental claims and compliance with recognized eco-labeling standards
- Lifecycle assessment evaluating and documenting the product’s environmental impact at every stage, from raw material sourcing to final disposal.
Water Conservation
Products and brands that actively implement measures to minimize water usage, promote efficiency, and reduce water waste throughout their lifecycle or operations
Applies to: Products, operations
- Water-efficient product designs designs that reduce usage through smart technology or optimized features
- Water recycling systems integrated into operations or products to reuse and minimize consumption
- Water footprint calculations to assess and reduce total water use across the product lifecycle
- Certifications and water stewardship standards demonstrating verified efforts in conservation
Energy Efficiency
Products that are intentionally designed or manufactured to conserve energy, reduce carbon footprint, and incorporate energy-efficient features or production methods.
Applies to: Products, manufacturing
- Energy Star or similar certifications proving compliance with recognized energy-efficiency standards
- Energy usage data comparisons that highlight reduced consumption versus conventional options
- Smart energy features such as low-power modes, efficient components, or intelligent control systems
- Renewable energy usage in production to lower environmental impact and support clean energy
Sustainable Packaging
Products and brands that actively reduce environmental impact through thoughtful packaging choices—favoring recyclable, compostable, or resource-efficient designs that lower waste and emissions
Applies to: Product packaging
- Compostable/recyclable packaging evidence
- Packaging waste reduction metrics
- Minimalist packaging designs
- A documented packaging policy aligned with Mostadaam’s recommendation to prioritize sustainable materials whenever possible
Made with Care
Products crafted with exceptional attention to detail and quality standards, ensuring durability and long life.
Applies to: Handmade products, artisanal goods
- Evidence of product durability through reviews, testimonials, or warranty details
- Production process documentation that ensure consistent high standards
- A clear product warranty with defined coverage, ranging from 1 year to over 10 years
- A satisfaction guarantee offering refund or replacement if quality expectations aren’t met
- Skilled craftsmanship highlighting precision and attention to detail
Organic
Products or brands that are certified organic or produced using organic farming methods free from synthetic chemicals, pesticides, fertilizers, or GMOs.
Applies to: Food, textiles, cosmetics
- Verified organic certification from recognized certification bodies
- Organic farming method documentation highlighting natural inputs and chemical-free practices
- Ingredient transparency reports confirming organic, non-synthetic sourcing
- Evidence of compliance with official organic standards and labeling requirements
- Accepted evidence may vary by product category. Brands should provide certifications, ingredient disclosures, or supporting documentation to confirm organic claims
Natural
Products or ingredients derived from natural sources, free from synthetic additives, colors, or fragrances
Applies to: Ingredients, products
- Ingredient transparency offering clear details about natural ingredients used
- Certifications confirming natural ingredient use and adherence to natural standards
- Manufacturing process documentation Processes demonstrating sustainable methods that preserve ingredient integrity
- Third-Party Testing verifying the natural composition through independent tests
Plant-Based
Products derived from plants, free of animal ingredients, supporting the circular bioeconomy.
Applies to: Food, materials
- Ingredient transparency offering clear details about plant-based ingredients and the absence of animal derived content
- Plant-based certifications providing relevant certifications or labels confirming plant-based nature
- Clear products labeling indicating plant-based status, ensuring transparency for consumers
- Supplier Information ensuring ingredients or materials come from reputable suppliers adhering to plant-based principles
Made in UAE
Products manufactured within the United Arab Emirates, supporting local businesses and contributing to the national economy by reinvesting revenue into the community.
Applies to: Products
- Origin information clearly stating the product is made in the UAE
- Proof of business registration within the UAE
- Manufacturing location confirmed to be within the UAE
- Evidence of locally sourced materials or ingredients used in the product
Made in KSA
Products manufactured within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, promoting local industry and reinforcing economic resilience through community based production and sourcing.
Applies to: Products
- Origin information clearly stating the product is made in KSA
- Proof of business registration within Saudi Arabia
- Manufacturing location confirmed to be within KSA
- Evidence of locally sourced materials or ingredients from within Saudi Arabia
Renewable Energy
Products made using 100% renewable energy during manufacturing, reducing carbon footprint and supporting the transition to clean energy sources.
Applies to: Manufacturing, services
- Renewable energy certifications verifying use of solar, wind, or other clean sources
- Energy usage data showing 100% renewable energy consumption in production
- Supplier information confirming renewable energy sourcing in the production process
Regenerative Agriculture
Products sourced from farms that follow regenerative practices to restore soil health, enhance biodiversity, and improve ecosystem resilience.
Applies to: Agricultural products
- Regenerative agriculture certifications from recognized bodies
- Farm practices documentation outlining soil-building, composting, or biodiversity strategies
- Supplier information confirming use of regenerative methods in agricultural sourcing
Climate Positive
Applies to brands, products, or services that go beyond achieving net-zero emissions by actively removing more carbon from the atmosphere than they emit helping to mitigate climate change and support a regenerative future.
Applies to: Brands, services
- Carbon-negative or climate positive certifications from recognized organizations
- Verified participation in carbon removal initiatives, such as reforestation, direct air capture, or blue carbon projects
- Operational model or service design that demonstrates a net-positive climate impact, including transparent offsetting strategies and renewable energy integration
- Demonstrated support or investment in emerging carbon removal solutions, such as enhanced weathering or ocean-based carbon sequestration projects
Support Biodiversity
Applies to products, services, or brands that actively protect ecosystems, enhance species diversity, or support biodiversity positive practices through sourcing, design, or operational efforts.
Applies to: Products, land use
- Verified participation in habitat restoration efforts such as reforestation, marine conservation, or pollinator-friendly initiatives
- Support for biodiversity research, or active collaboration with conservation organizations or scientific institutions
- Community education or service models that raise awareness and promote biodiversity-friendly behavior or conservation practices
- Responsible sourcing backed by certifications (e.g., Rainforest Alliance, FSC), ethical harvesting, or support for local resource managing communities
Cruelty-Free
Products or services not tested on animals and free from animal derived ingredients at every stage of production.
Applies to: Cosmetics, household items
- Animal testing policy confirming no testing on animals throughout development
- Ingredient sourcing policy ensuring no animal derived substances are used
- Recognized cruelty-free certifications such as Leaping Bunny or CCF
- Transparent product and sourcing details that confirm cruelty-free practices
Fair-Trade
Products or services made under fair working conditions, ensuring ethical treatment, fair wages, and community well-being.
Applies to: Food, textiles, crafts
- Fair-trade certification or sourcing from certified fair-trade producers
- Transparent supply chain information showing ethical production and sourcing
- Documentation of fair wages and safe working conditions for all workers
- Support for community development initiatives linked to your sourcing, such as education or healthcare
Vegan
Products or services that contain no animal-derived ingredients or by-products at any stage of production.
Applies to: Food, clothing, cosmetics
- Ingredient transparency showing all components are free from animal-based substances
- Clear vegan labeling on packaging and marketing materials
- Recognized vegan certification (e.g., Vegan Society) confirming vegan status
- Verified sourcing from suppliers who follow vegan principles
Ethical Fashion
Clothing produced under fair, safe, and transparent conditions, respecting workers' rights and environmental responsibility.
Applies to: Clothing, accessories
- Ethical material sourcing proof, including use of sustainable or fair-trade textiles
- Transparent supply chain reports showing ethical practices at each stage
- Documentation of worker empowerment initiatives like training or fair labor programs
- Recognized fair-trade or ethical fashion certification (e.g., Fair Wear Foundation)
Handcrafted
Made by artisans using traditional techniques with care and craftsmanship. Each piece reflects cultural heritage, uniqueness, and skill.
Applies to: Crafts, textiles, decor
- Share profiles or background stories of the artisans behind the products, showcasing their expertise and cultural roots
- Provide photos, videos, or documents that show how the product is made by hand step by step
- Explain the traditional methods, materials, or tools used in crafting the item to highlight its uniqueness
- Describe how the product helps preserve cultural heritage or supports artisan communities
Woman-Owned
Businesses majority-owned and operated by women, supporting gender equality and empowering female entrepreneurs.
Applies to: Business ownership
- Official documents proving female ownership
- Verifiable public sources confirming women-led leadership
- Proof of affiliation with women-focused organizations or networks
- Testimonials or media stories highlighting women’s business success
Social Impact
Indicates that the product, service, or brand contributes to measurable positive change by empowering marginalized individuals or communities and addressing social challenges through inclusive practices, promoting well-being and community development.
Applies to: Brands, programs
- Case studies, testimonials, or reports demonstrating your product or brand’s contribution to social well-being and community development.
- Documentation of initiatives supporting social equity such as access to education, healthcare, or skill development for disadvantaged groups.
- Evidence that product sales provide sustainable income to independent individuals for whom this revenue is a primary source of livelihood.
- Proof of participation in the Mostadaam Social Program, contributing 0.5% to 3% of each sale to verified social impact partners.
Poverty Reduction
Signifies that the product, brand, or service actively supports economic empowerment and fair income distribution, especially for individuals or communities facing financial hardship.
Applies to: Brands, initiatives
- Documentation showing that product sales generate core income for small scale producers or independent sellers, helping sustain their livelihoods. For independent sellers, show that product revenue supports their main income contributing to financial stability.
- Enable income generation for individuals facing poverty through the sale of handmade or locally produced goods.
- Evidence of programs that promote economic inclusion such as training, entrepreneurship, or income-generating initiatives for underserved populations.
- Verification of partnerships, donations, or support provided to organizations dedicated to poverty alleviation and economic development.
Independent & Start-ups
This value highlights small businesses, entrepreneurs, and start-ups that are privately owned and not part of large corporations or conglomerates. These businesses emphasize uniqueness, innovation, and personal involvement. Supporting them fosters creativity, entrepreneurship, diversity, and fair competition within the Mostadaam marketplace.
Applies to: Business structure
- Submit official business registration or incorporation documents confirming your status as an independent or start-up. If unavailable, you may instead provide a personal story reflecting your involvement in product creation or branding elements such as a unique logo, website, or packaging that reflect your independent identity
- Showcase products or ideas that demonstrate innovation, originality, or a distinct market approach
- Present your goals, growth plans, or examples of how you are building your business
- Provide feedback or reviews from customers or experts that highlight your product’s value and credibility
- Share relevant recognitions that support your reputation as a credible start-up or independent business
- Demonstrate active online engagement, community building, and customer interaction on your brand’s social platforms
Heritage Craft
This value supports the preservation and promotion of traditional and cultural crafts that are rooted in local history and identity. These crafts are often passed down through generations and hold both artistic and cultural value. Promoting heritage crafts helps safeguard cultural diversity and supports artisan livelihoods.
Applies to: Artisan products
- Describe traditional techniques used in your products, including their cultural or historical significance
- Highlight artisans behind the work and share their background, training, and role in preserving traditional skills
- Explain the cultural or historical origins of your product and its importance within a specific community or tradition
- Describe how your product contributes to the transmission and visibility of regional or ethnic traditions
- Provide evidence of working directly with artisan communities or organizations that preserve heritage crafts
- Submit certifications or endorsements from cultural institutions confirming the authenticity of your craft products
- Show your commitment to fair wages and ethical sourcing by providing relevant certifications or proof of equitable practices with artisans
Cultural Goods
Refers to products or services that express culture, values, or traditions enhancing personal and practical life through books, multimedia, courses, crafts, films, fashion, and wellness offerings. They support cultural preservation, social awareness, and holistic development.
Applies to: Books, courses, media, consulting services, crafts
- Demonstrate how your product/service enriches lives through culture, learning, or well-being
- Showcase artistic, cultural, or traditional elements in your offering, including any educational or multimedia content that adds cultural value
- Demonstrate a contribution to sustainability, ethics, or social issues, or provide credentials or collaborations with cultural experts or institutions
Community Engagement
Refers to brands and initiatives that actively support and collaborate with local communities promoting inclusion, social cohesion, shared value, and long-term impact. This may include educational outreach, local employment, awareness campaigns, or co-creating solutions that address community needs.
Applies to: Brands, programs
- Documentation of partnerships or collaborations with local groups, NGOs, or community-led initiatives
- Participation in community projects, workshops, or events
- Testimonials, feedback, or stories showing how your work benefits and engages the community
People of Determination Empowerment
Products or services (digital or physical) created by or for people with disabilities (physical, sensory, cognitive, or intellectual).
Applies to: Accessibility products
- Accessibility certifications (e.g. WCAG compliance) or accessibility feature documentation (e.g. screen reader compatibility, wheelchair access)
- Proof of design, creation, or service delivery by people of determination
- Evidence of inclusion initiatives or partnerships supporting people of determination
Recycled & Repurposed
Products made from recycled or creatively repurposed materials, reducing waste and conserving resources.
Applies to: Materials, products
- Certification, documentation, or clear description of recycled or repurposed content and material sourcing
- Visual or written evidence showing upcycling practices or circular design approach
- Partnership records with recycling programs or proof of active participation in waste diversion initiatives
Less Waste
Products or services designed to minimize waste generation throughout their lifecycle.
Applies to: Products, packaging
- Data or case studies showing reduced waste compared to similar alternatives
- Design features that support waste minimization (e.g., modular, refillable, recyclable packaging)
- Documentation of waste tracking systems or waste reduction strategies
Zero Waste
Products, services, or brands aiming to eliminate waste entirely through recycling, composting, and circular practices.
Applies to: Operations, products
- Data, studies, or tracking systems showing zero waste performance or improvements
- Proof of recycling/composting programs or partnerships with waste management organizations
- Recognized zero waste certifications or circular economy participation
Circularity
Focuses on designing products, services, or systems that enable continuous resource use through recycling, upcycling, and waste minimization, while implementing closed-loop systems to reduce environmental impact.
Applies to: Product design
- Demonstrate product design for disassembly or modularity, allowing components to be easily separated, repaired, reused, or recycled at the end of their life cycle
- Show evidence of using recyclable, reusable, or recycled materials, and explain how material choices support circularity and reduce the need for virgin resources
- Highlight take back programs, closed-loop production models, or recycling initiatives that reintroduce used materials into the manufacturing process, minimizing landfill waste
- Provide case studies, documentation, or certifications that reflect how circular principles are embedded in your operations from sourcing and production to end of life management.
Sustainable Fashion
Garments designed for durability, reduced environmental impact, and made from sustainable or recycled materials, with a strong focus on minimizing waste and promoting reuse within the fashion industry.
Applies to: Clothing, accessories
- Demonstrate the use of eco-friendly materials such as organic cotton, hemp, linen, or recycled fabrics, supported by sourcing information or relevant certifications
- Offer repair services, recycling programs, or take-back schemes that extend garment lifespans and prevent textiles from ending up in landfills
- Showcase upcycling initiatives that creatively transform old or discarded garments and textile waste into new, valuable products, promoting innovation and circularity
- Design products for longevity through durable construction, timeless style, and the ability to be easily repaired or reused, encouraging responsible consumption and waste reduction
Support SDGs
Focuses on aligning products, services, or brands with one or more of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), contributing to global progress in social, environmental, and economic development.
Applies to: Brands, initiatives
- Clearly demonstrate how your product, service, or business aligns with specific SDGs through documented impact, initiatives, or measurable contributions
- Provide case studies, reports, or visual documentation showing how your activities contribute to one or more of the 17 SDGs
- Showcase partnerships or collaborations with organizations, NGOs, or governmental bodies working toward the achievement of the SDGs
- Highlight any campaigns, educational programs, or outreach efforts that raise awareness or drive action in support of sustainable development goals
Sustainable Supply Chain
Emphasizes the integration of environmentally and socially responsible practices throughout the entire product journey from raw material sourcing to end-user delivery ensuring transparency, ethics, and minimal environmental impact.
Applies to: Operations
- Demonstrate the implementation of sustainable supply chain practices such as ethical labor, carbon reduction, responsible sourcing, and waste minimization
- Provide documentation or certifications verifying sustainable sourcing, including partnerships with eco-conscious or fair-trade suppliers
- Showcase systems for transparency and traceability such as blockchain or AI tools that allow tracking of materials and verification of sustainability practices across the supply chain
- Share results of environmental impact assessments or audits, along with improvement strategies that reduce resource use, emissions, and other environmental risks
Third-Party Certified
Indicates that the product, service, or brand has been independently verified by a reputable organization to meet recognized sustainability or ethical standards.
Applies to: Products, brands
- Share official documentation or proof of certification from accredited third-party organizations covering areas such as organic, fair trade, carbon neutrality, or cruelty-free practices
- Display the certification logo or mark on packaging, marketing materials, or your website to indicate verified compliance with trusted standards
- Present valid certificates or official statements of compliance issued by recognized certification bodies confirming adherence to specific criteria
- Provide the unique certification reference or number, enabling customers or stakeholders to verify the certification’s authenticity and scope
ESG Reporting
Demonstrates a commitment to governance and transparency through the public sharing of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance data.
Applies to: Companies
- Submit a published ESG report clearly outlining your brand's or company’s performance in environmental, social, and governance areas
- Prove compliance with recognized ESG frameworks or standards, such as GRI, SASB, or UN PRI
- Provide evidence of third-party verification or auditing of your ESG data to ensure accuracy and credibility
- Confirm that your brand has publicly released an ESG report within the past 12 months and is committed to regular updates moving forward
Blockchain & AI
Applies to products or services utilizing blockchain or AI technologies to enhance transparency, efficiency, and sustainable outcomes.
Applies to: Supply chains, data
- Share documentation or case studies showing the integration of blockchain or AI technologies to improve sustainability or operational transparency
- Provide measurable evidence of how blockchain or AI implementation has reduced environmental impact or improved sustainable practices
- Present proof of partnerships with technology providers specializing in sustainability driven blockchain or AI solutions
- Demonstrate how these technologies are enabling traceability, real-time data analysis, or automated sustainability reporting
Sustainably Produced
Refers to goods or services made with minimal environmental impact, ethical practices, and long-term social and ecological responsibility.
Applies to: Products, processes
- Show the use of renewable, responsibly sourced, or recycled materials, including those certified by recognized bodies such as the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)
- Demonstrate energy-efficient processes or products, including the use of renewable energy and low-energy production techniques
- Provide proof of environmental stewardship practices, such as ecosystem restoration, pollution reduction, or biodiversity conservation
- Present sustainability certifications or verification of ethical sourcing and fair labor throughout the supply chain
Locally Produced
Refers to items produced or manufactured within the Gulf region, reducing carbon emissions from transportation and supporting local economies
Applies to: Food, goods
- Specify the manufacturing or production location within one of the Gulf countries and include proximity details where possible
- Share delivery distance or estimated travel time to highlight reduced transportation emissions and local accessibility
- Provide proof of local business registration or licensing within the Gulf region
- Offer documentation or labels identifying the origin of production as local to validate sustainability through reduced logistics impact
Thank you for taking the time to explore Mostadaam's Sustainable and Ethical Standards
By reaching this point, you're already part of a growing global movement one that believes business can be a force for good. Mostadaam is the first marketplace of its kind in the world, built entirely around verified sustainability and ethical values. Every step you've just taken through 43 detailed standards presented in English, Arabic, and French is a testament to the transparency, inclusivity, and global vision we stand for.
We invite you to take the next step: select at least four (4) standards that align with your product, service, or brand. This is more than a requirement, it's a declaration that you're ready to make a real impact.
By joining Mostadaam, you're not just opening a store, you're joining a community of purpose driven brands shaping a better, fairer, and more sustainable future.
Click the "Choose Your Plan" button below to begin your registration. Your selected plan will reflect your level of commitment and unlock tailored benefits, lower commissions, and meaningful visibility.
We can't wait to welcome you to the Mostadaam family, where sustainability is not a trend, but the foundation of everything we do.
