Kamal Ghorui
The UAE’s Ministry of Economy and Tourism has intensified inspections across markets to keep prices stable and ensure essential goods remain available, assuring residents that the country holds strategic reserves of key items that can meet demand for up to six months.The ministry said inspection teams are carrying out daily checks at shops and retail outlets across the country. These inspections are being conducted in coordination with economic development departments in all emirates through a joint national monitoring team. The effort aims to prevent unjustified price increases, stop unsound commercial practices and maintain close oversight of market activity.
Authorities said retailers must follow consumer protection regulations, particularly rules governing the pricing of essential goods. Under the current policy, traders cannot increase prices of certain basic commodities without prior approval from the ministry and a national committee responsible for monitoring price changes.The rule applies to nine essential items: cooking oil, eggs, dairy products, rice, sugar, poultry, legumes, bread and wheat.The ministry also addressed recent price increases in onions and tomatoes reported over the past two days. Officials said the increase is temporary and linked to the impact of the regional crisis. Additional supplies of these vegetables have already been delivered to markets in large quantities to stabilise availability.Authorities stressed that essential goods remain available in sufficient quantities and consumers also have access to multiple alternatives. Officials added that prices are expected to return to normal levels soon as supply continues to increase.The ministry said the UAE maintains a strategic stockpile of essential commodities capable of covering market demand for up to six months. These reserves are distributed across different regions of the country through a system designed to strengthen supply chains and allow authorities to respond quickly to market needs during emergencies.Officials also confirmed that shipping and supply operations through the country’s entry points are continuing normally. Supply chains remain efficient and goods are reaching local markets without interruption.The UAE also relies on a wide network of international partner markets that supply imports of various goods. This allows authorities to quickly secure alternative sources if disruptions occur.Since the beginning of the regional crisis, the Ministry of Economy and Tourism and local economic development departments have conducted around 7,105 inspection tours across markets nationwide. These inspections resulted in 567 violations, most of them related to unjustified price increases.Authorities issued 449 warnings to traders, suppliers and retail outlets, and imposed financial penalties totalling AED207,250.The ministry said monitoring campaigns will continue in the coming period to ensure market stability and protect consumers.Residents are encouraged to report price increases or violations through official channels. Complaints can be submitted through the Ministry of Economy and Tourism websitewww.moet.gov.ae, by calling or sending a WhatsApp message to 8001222, or by email at info@moet.gov.ae.Authorities also urged consumers to purchase goods according to their needs and avoid hoarding or excessive buying so that products remain available for everyone
