Q: Why is it that after I have passed through customs at an airport in the UAE, shops can charge ridiculous amounts for crisps or chocolate bars or even small, locally produced bottle of water; but, before I pass through customs, prices are the same as they would be at a petrol station?
A: All shops in the UAE (whether at an airport or not) are allowed to set their own prices for products that they sell. There is no law or legal authority that prevents sellers or distributors setting their own prices. Article 8 of consumer protection law of 2006 states sellers are obliged to indicate clearly the prices of products at retail stores.
Q: What are my consumer rights if I buy anything online that does not match my expectations?
A: All UAE retailers, suppliers or traders including those selling online are subject to the consumer protection laws. According to article 5 of Law No 24 of 2006, If goods were purchased from UAE store, refunds are available in two events: a) discovery of a faulty product; b) supplied product was of different description. Also the refund shall be during the proper time as per the law.
What can I do if I suspect I got food poisoning from a restaurant – but the restaurant denies it was their fault?
Restaurants and hotels have to be particularly careful and ensure they sell food items that do not contain any harmful or adulterous substances. Such matters should be reported immediately.
Consumers can call the municipality hotline number and report the restaurant’s actions. The municipality will take direct action against those restaurants or hotels. According to Article 7 of Law No 2 of 2008 on Food Safety, official of the food establishment has to ensure that food supplied at the restaurant is safe for human consumption. Article 14 gives a right to a competent officer to visit the food establishment to investigate the quality of food in question. Punishment for failing to comply with required quality standards could be as serious as blocking or removing the establishment’s licence.
If you have a question for Mr Elhais, email newsdesk@thenational.ae with the subject line ‘Consumer Q&A’
