A specialised entity focused on ensuring fair trade and consumer rights protection is going to be established in Dubai.
The new entity aims to strengthen Dubai’s position as a global economic hub and a major centre for trade and commerce.
On 24 March 2022, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of Dubai Executive Council, directed the establishment of the entity at a meeting of the Dubai Executive Council held at Expo 2020 Dubai.
It also intends to support economic growth in the emirate while ensuring stability and maturity of businesses and providing “pioneering and new opportunities for the business sector”.
In 2021, Dubai’s Commercial Compliance & Consumer Protection Sector in the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) received 414 commercial complaints.
The services sector accounted for a majority of the commercial complaints received in 2021, followed by building materials, foodstuffs, decoration & construction accessories, electronics, shipping, furniture and cars. The remaining came from sectors such as equipment rental, labour supply, car rental, document clearance and transportation.
“The trade sector is the backbone of our economy. Today, Dubai is a base for global, regional and local companies to tap opportunities in the world’s most attractive and fastest-growing markets, and we continue to strengthen our position as a global leader in supporting businesses to enhance their success and innovation,” said Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, according to news agency WAM.
“We seek to build an integrated system that supports equal opportunities and ensures the protection of business and consumer rights. At the same time, we aim to create the optimal environment for fostering the development of human resources and logistical capabilities in an integrated manner,” added Sheikh Hamdan.
The Council also discussed several projects and policies on its agenda during the meeting. It also approved a policy aimed at addressing drug abuse and addiction, as well as rehabilitation.
The policy will review the treatment and rehabilitation system for addiction, monitor recovery rates among individuals and intensify preventive awareness programmes.
The Executive Council approved the new entity’s objectives, which focus on reducing anti-competitive practices, reviewing and developing consumer protection policies as well as educating consumers on their rights and responsibilities, the statement said.
It will also ensure commercial establishments’ compliance with laws governing businesses, strengthen corporate self-monitoring across institutions as well as provide a seamless retail experience in Dubai for the local and global community.
The Consumer Protection Department will also keep a close eye on major price hikes, the attempt to wipe out monopolies and receiving consumer complaints via a new hotline. An official from the ministry said the law is part of the government’s effort to contain inflation, as well as to protect consumers against exploitation and markets manipulation.
