The UAE Ministry of Economy and Tourism has increased its monitoring of retail outlets across the country in response to rising food prices, carrying out more than 7,100 inspections since the start of the regional crisis.
During that period, the Ministry recorded over 560 violations, most of them related to unjustified price increases. It has issued 449 warnings and fines totalling more than AED 207,000.
Specialist teams are conducting daily field inspections to check that essential consumer goods remain available and that prices stay within acceptable limits. The inspections cover traders, suppliers and points of sale across the UAE.
The Ministry is also enforcing consumer protection rules that apply to nine essential commodities: cooking oil, eggs, dairy products, rice, sugar, poultry, legumes, bread and wheat. Retailers cannot raise prices on these goods without prior approval from the Ministry.
On recent price movements, the Ministry noted that increases in items such as onions and tomatoes are temporary and linked to the regional situation. It confirmed that additional supplies have already reached markets.
The Ministry stressed that essential goods remain widely available. Strategic reserves are sufficient to cover market needs for up to six months, and supply chains and shipping continue to operate as normal.
The Ministry is asking consumers to report any violations through its official channels. It is also encouraging the public to buy only what they need and to avoid stockpiling, in order to help keep markets stable.
See also: UAE Food Supply Remains Stable as Residents Weigh Up Regional Uncertainty, more UAE news and more things to do in Dubai.