Outlets must display details about consumer rights

The Department of Economic Development (DED) has set October 18, 2010, as the deadline for all outlets in Dubai emirate to display details about consumer rights.

Outlets, including shops and restaurants, failing to adhere to the new rule will be fined.

The initiative is aimed at strengthening communication with consumers and retailers, and underscores DED’s continuous efforts to strengthen awareness on consumer rights among the public.

“The DED is the only government department in Dubai dedicated to raising awareness of consumers' rights and responsibilities. Inspectors from the Commercial Compliance and Consumer Protection Division will start random campaigns to ensure that the outlets are displaying the required details related to consumer rights and positioning it in a clear visible area in both Arabic and English,” said Omar Bushahab, CEO, Commercial Compliance and Consumer Protection Division, DED.

“This initiative is part of our commitment to strengthen the retail sector and boost customer confidence. DED will launch initiatives and services in line with consumer protection law to ensure high levels of consumer satisfaction. The enforcement of consumer rights is aimed at promoting a healthy trading environment which is transparent,” added Bushahab.

The DED has also adopted a new mechanism to connect with consumers and ensure their requirements and complaints are addressed adequately. Consumers can register a complaint by sending an e-mail to consumerrights@dubaided.gov.ae, or by calling Ahlan Dubai on +971 600 545555.

The DED website also provides specific instructions for consumers, including general information on how DED or any other concerned government departments can help consumers. It presents extracts regarding the UAE’s directives on Consumer Law No 24 for 2006, the responsibilities of consumers, shopping advice, and points to consider before making complaints on purchases. The site also includes steps to help resolve the problems of consumers with retailers.

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