2,700 consumer complaints received in Q1

The Commercial Compliance and Consumer Protection (CCCP) section in the Department of Economic Development (DED), Dubai, received 2,695 consumer complaints at its call centre during the first quarter of 2014. This indicates a growing awareness of consumer rights among the public.

Around 82 per cent of complainants expressed satisfaction with the steps taken to resolve their complaints.

The number of complaints – 898 per month on average – and the high satisfaction levels among consumers also demonstrate the effectiveness of the measures taken by DED to protect consumer rights and elevate quality of retailing in Dubai in line with maintaining the city’s reputation as an attractive shopping destination for residents and tourists alike.

Sector-wise, services accounted for the biggest share of complaints (39.3 per cent) followed by electronics (26.1 per cent), textiles and supplies (14.2 per cent), cars (12.1 per cent), and furniture (3.9 per cent).

Abdul Aziz bin Hathboor, Director of Consumer Protection, DED, said: “DED spares no effort in upholding transparency and quality standards in the retail sector as well as in promoting cordial relations and a culture of best practices, particularly since the sector is a key driver of economic development in Dubai.”

Hathboor added that since the retail sector is set to witness a high level of buying and selling activity with the advent of Ramadan, CCCP will step up its awareness drive through a dedicated zone in Dubai Mall. Visitors to Dubai Mall will be able to learn about consumer protection and the Blue Book, which is a ready reference on the responsibilities of retailers and consumers.

“Most complaints we receive are pertaining to service and maintenance in the electronics sector, which shows the benefits of awareness. DED follows up on every complaint and in most cases they are resolved amicably within four days. Consumers should retain the original purchase receipt without which complaints will not be entertained,” Hathboor added.

Consumers can approach DED with their complaints on purchases made in Dubai even when they are not in Dubai. Sallety.com, the online portal and smart application of CCCP has provision to submit consumer complaints and consumers can also use twitter handle @Dubai_consumers.
Commenting on the high level of consumer satisfaction on complaints resolution, Omar Al Mehairi, Director of Development and Follow-up Department in CCCP said DED followed up with consumers to gather their feedback on the steps taken following the complaint.

“The Development and Follow-up administration monitors consumer feedback to bridge gaps in consumer protection. We will continue to work on promoting good relations between retailers and consumers. A series of meeting between leading retailers and DED will be the next step wherein we will educate them on counterfeit products. A series of workshops is also planned to raise awareness on the responsibilities of retailers towards consumers,” added Al Mehairi.

 

Follow Emirates 24|7 on Google News.