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The UAE’s consumer protection law just got tougher, with authorities introducing a Dh250,000 fine on business that fail to repair or refund consumers for defective goods. The hefty fine is part of 46 new changes in the consumer protection law that the Ministry of Economy announced on Thursday (January 11), with fines of up to Dh1 million. The amended law places more responsibility on businesses and suppliers and introduced regulatory mechanism to ensure that consumer satisfaction is enhanced. Under the law, suppliers or businesses will be fined Dh250,000 if “they fail to repair, maintain, provide after-sales services, return goods or refund within a certain time limit after a defect is discovered.” Suppliers or businesses that fail to comply with standard specifications, rules and conditions for safety and health will be fined Dh200,000. Under the amended law, some penalties could lead to licence cancellation or deregistration of the business in the case of repeated offences. The Ministry of Economy is currently collaborating with local government entities to develop a comprehensive system to promptly address and resolve consumer complaints. ICA/Expat Media Also read: Full guide to filing a consumer complaint in UAE
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