The UAE’s Ministry of Economy and Tourism said it has carried out 4,468 market inspections and detected 554 violations, issuing 449 warnings and collecting Dh176,000 in fines after finding unjustified price hikes amid regional tensions. The ministry said food supplies remain stable and monitoring will intensify during Ramadan.
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Ministry of Economy and Tourism report
The ministry said inspection teams, working in coordination with local Departments of Economic Development, conducted 4,468 inspection tours across markets and retail outlets. Those checks identified 554 violations, the ministry added, with the most common breach being raising prices without justification. As a result, authorities issued 449 warnings and imposed fines totalling Dh176,000.
Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri field visit
The figures were announced during a field tour by Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri to Al Aweer Central Vegetable and Fruit Market in Dubai, where he reviewed stock levels and market activity. The minister told the Emirates News Agency that markets are witnessing a clear abundance of goods and that recent arrivals of agricultural shipments have helped push prices down for several commodities.
Inspections and penalties
Authorities said specialised inspection teams carry out targeted visits when complaints are received and also perform routine checks. The enforcement measures range from written warnings and deadlines to rectify prices to financial penalties. The ministry’s action plan can escalate penalties depending on the severity of violations; previous policy guidance states fines may reach Dh100,000 for serious breaches.
Real-time monitoring system
The ministry highlighted its electronic price-monitoring platform, which it says is linked to 627 major retail outlets — including cooperative societies, hypermarkets and supermarkets — representing about 90 per cent of domestic trade in essential consumer goods. The system enables direct and real-time tracking of price movements and stock sufficiency across the supply chain.
Ramadan enforcement plan
The ministry said it will intensify market oversight during the holy month, with an action plan that includes more than 420 inspection tours to ensure price stability and availability of essential goods. Inspectors will maintain daily checks on targeted items and follow up on consumer complaints.
Consumer reporting and complaints
Authorities urged consumers to report unjustified price hikes to the relevant economic departments so inspection teams can act swiftly. The ministry emphasised that consumer protection remains a priority and that enforcement will continue nationwide.
