Picture for illustrative purposes only. ARCHIVE

Authorities in the UAE have issued more than Dh207,000 in fines to companies for unjustified price increases following thousands of inspections carried out across the country. According to the UAE Ministry of Economy and Tourism, officials conducted about 7,105 inspection tours since February 28 to ensure food prices remain stable. The inspections uncovered 567 violations, many related to price increases that were not approved by authorities. As a result, 449 warnings were issued to traders, suppliers and retail outlets, while financial penalties totaling Dh207,250 were imposed. Officials said the inspections are part of ongoing efforts to monitor markets after regional tensions escalated following the conflict involving the US, Israel and Iran. The ministry said inspection teams worked closely with economic development departments across the UAE to check compliance at shops, supermarkets and other retail outlets. Authorities said they will intensify monitoring in the coming weeks to maintain market stability and ensure a safe consumer environment. The ministry explained that the UAE uses a digital price monitoring system that tracks prices automatically across major retail outlets. The system is connected to 627 large retailers, including consumer cooperatives, supermarkets and hypermarkets, representing more than 90 percent of the country’s internal trade in essential consumer goods. Through direct integration with these retailers, officials can detect sudden or unjustified price changes quickly. The government currently regulates prices for nine essential consumer items, including cooking oil, eggs, dairy products, rice, sugar, poultry, legumes, bread and wheat. Businesses must obtain prior approval before increasing prices for these products.

How to report violators

Authorities said consumers also play an important role in monitoring markets. Residents can report suspected violations or price increases through the ministry’s website, by calling or sending a WhatsApp message to 8001222, or by emailing info@moet.gov.ae. Officials also advised shoppers to purchase responsibly and avoid excessive buying or hoarding. Earlier, the ministry reassured residents that essential goods in the UAE remain widely available and that there are no signs of supply shortages. ICA/Expat Media
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