A view of Abu Dhabi. ARCHIVE

A customer in Abu Dhabi has been ordered to pay Dh7,000 in compensation for publicly insulting and humiliating a shop salesman. The Abu Dhabi Family, Civil and Administrative Cases Court issued the ruling in the civil case. The legal dispute arose after the customer visited the store to request a refund, which was denied in accordance with the shop’s refund policy. Frustrated by the rejection, the customer resorted to verbal abuse, shouting insults at the salesman in front of other employees and customers. The situation escalated when the customer deliberately spilled a bottle of water on the shop floor, an act perceived as a public attempt to demean the salesman. The incident led the salesman to file a complaint with the police, citing severe embarrassment and emotional distress. Investigations were launched, and the case was eventually referred to the Criminal Court. Following the legal proceedings, the Criminal Court ruled in favor of the salesman. The salesman then filed a separate civil case, seeking Dh30,000 in compensation for moral damages, arguing that the customer's actions had tarnished his professional reputation and caused significant psychological distress. However, after reviewing the evidence and testimonies, the court settled on a lower amount. The ruling underscores the UAE’s strict stance against public insults and defamation. Under UAE law, individuals who engage in defamatory or abusive behavior can face both criminal and civil penalties. While customer disputes over refunds are common, retail professionals emphasize the importance of handling grievances through proper channels. “Customers have the right to voice concerns, but it should be done respectfully and within the confines of company policies and UAE laws,” a legal expert familiar with consumer rights cases told Expat Media. As the UAE continues to implement strict measures against workplace harassment and defamation, legal experts advise customers to resolve disputes through lawful and professional means, rather than resorting to public outbursts that could result in legal consequences. ICA/Expat Media
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