Q: If I think that a restaurant is overcharging for water, who can I complain to? Is there a rule that says restaurants must also offer local water and not only expensive, imported bottled water?
A: The prices for food and beverages are generally set by restaurants. A customer does not have the right to complain against a restaurant for overcharging. As long as the prices of items are clearly displayed (as per Article 7 of Law 24 of 2006) on a food menu there is no legal reason for a complaint. There is no regulation binding restaurants to sell local water along with imported brands.
Q: I bought a garment at a sale but it was damaged, there was a small hole in the sleeve, which I did not notice. The 15-day period of return or exchange has passed and the store says they cannot replace it or return my money. Who can I approach? Surely the shop should not be selling garments that are damaged in a sale?
A: As per Consumer Protection Law No 24 of 2006, you have a right to return the garment to the shop because there was a defect in the product. If the shopkeeper refuses to refund you or replace the product, you have a right to file a complaint against the shop with the consumer department. As per Article 5, you are entitled for a full refund or exchange of product.
Q: My daughter’s swimming school was forced to change location midway through the term to an area that is too far away and not convenient to take children for practice after school. They are refusing to return the fees although most parents cannot continue with the coaching. Who can we approach for a refund?
A: It is suggested you review the contractual terms and conditions signed with the school. If the terms of contract entitle you to seek a refund of money for terminating the relationship before the end of tenure then you are entitled to a refund. You have to approach a legal consultant to review the terms of the contract with a view to finding relevant terms and conditions applicable for a refund.
Our consumer expert is Hassan Mohsen Elhais, of Al Rowaad Advocates and Legal Consultants. If you have a question for Mr Elhais, email newsdesk@thenational.ae with the subject line ‘Consumer Q&A’.
