A signage on purchase limits at a hypermarket chain in Dubai on March 7, 2026. EXPAT MEDIA

Some supermarkets in Dubai have introduced temporary purchase limits to prevent hoarding as officials assured there are ample supplies and discouraged residents from panic buying.

The signages seen by Expat Media at one hypermarket on Saturday (March 7) asked shoppers to limit purchases to two kilograms for loose items and four packets per customer. “Considering the current situation, a maximum of 2kg only on kilo items. 4pcs on packet items per customer. Appreciate your understanding and cooperation. Thank you. Stay safe,” the sign read.

Retailers said the measures are intended to prevent stockpiling and ensure fair access to products, as authorities reassured residents that UAE markets remain stable and well supplied despite ongoing regional tensions. Officials said there is no shortage of food or essential goods in the country.

Authorities also confirmed that inspection campaigns are ongoing to prevent unjustified price increases or monopolistic practices. Residents who notice price irregularities or product shortages can report them through the Ministry of Economy and Tourism’s website, hotline 8001222, or email.

Authorities reassure residents on supplies

According to the Ministry of Economy and Tourism, the UAE maintains strong strategic reserves of essential commodities and continues to receive regular shipments of goods. The ministry said food and non-food products remain widely available across supermarkets and retail outlets nationwide. Officials are also monitoring stock levels through an electronic price monitoring system that collects and analyses market data to detect shortages or price changes. According to Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, the UAE’s economy has been designed to remain resilient during global or regional disruptions. “Thanks to the wise and forward-looking vision of its leadership, the UAE has successfully built a resilient economic system capable of confronting a wide range of regional and global challenges,” he said. “The country continues to enhance its preparedness for various regional and international developments, placing food security and the availability of goods among its highest priorities.” Bin Touq said imports and supply chains continue to operate normally, with goods entering the country without disruption. “We urge the public to remain reassured and not to be driven by unfounded concerns, excessive purchasing or stockpiling. The UAE’s markets are well supplied with the full range of goods and products consumers need,” he said.

Fresh food flown in to keep shelves stocked

Retailers are also taking extra steps to keep store shelves full. The Lulu Group International said it has arranged special cargo flights from India and other global markets to maintain supplies of fresh produce. A cargo freighter operated by Etihad Airways recently delivered around 12,000 packages of fruits and vegetables weighing about 80,000 kilograms to Abu Dhabi. The shipment departed from Kochi and arrived in the UAE early on Saturday (March 7), carrying approximately 80 tonnes of fresh produce. Retailers said additional cargo shipments are planned in the coming days. During an inspection visit to the Fruit and Vegetable Market in Al Aweer, Bin Touq said the steady arrival of agricultural shipments has already started affecting prices. He noted that the market is seeing a large supply of fruits and vegetables arriving from multiple countries, which has pushed prices down. According to traders at the market, more shipments are currently being unloaded and additional supplies are expected over the coming days. Officials said the growing supply is likely to continue easing prices for consumers. Bin Touq urged residents to purchase goods responsibly and avoid stockpiling. He said food products remain available across markets and that authorities are continuing to monitor supply chains closely. Officials also confirmed that they remain in daily coordination with suppliers, distributors and retailers to ensure the continued availability of goods across the country. ICA/Expat Media
For all the latest news from the UAE and the world, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and subscribe to our YouTube page