The UAE’s Minister of Economy and Tourism has reassured residents that food supplies remain stable across the country, even as the region faces ongoing geopolitical tensions.
His Excellency Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri conducted a field inspection at the Al Aweer Central Vegetable and Fruit Market in Dubai, one of the emirate’s largest wholesale markets, to check the availability of essential food items and ensure consumer protection rules are being followed.
During the visit, the minister toured several retail outlets, wholesale shops, and trading areas to verify that vegetables, fruits, and other essential goods are being supplied normally and sold at fair prices.
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UAE Warns Violations Will Not Be Tolerated
Al Marri emphasized that the UAE government considers any disruption to food supply or violation of consumer rights a “red line.”
He said authorities will take strict legal action against businesses that attempt to manipulate prices or engage in unfair commercial practices that could affect market stability.
The Ministry of Economy and Tourism has the authority to issue warnings, impose fines, and enforce other penalties to ensure that traders comply with consumer protection laws.
Officials say these measures are part of broader efforts to protect residents and maintain confidence in the country’s food supply system, particularly during periods of regional uncertainty.
Food Imports Continue as Normal
Despite the ongoing regional crisis, the minister confirmed that daily imports of vegetables and fruits into Al Aweer market remain normal.
The continued flow of goods reflects the UAE’s strong strategic food reserves and resilient supply chains, which are designed to prevent shortages and keep markets stable.
Authorities said the steady supply of produce ensures that consumer demand can be met without disruptions or sudden price increases.
Thousands of Market Inspections Conducted
The Ministry of Economy and Tourism has intensified monitoring efforts to prevent violations and maintain price transparency.
Officials revealed that since the start of the regional crisis, about 4,468 inspection visits have been conducted across markets nationwide.
These inspections identified 554 violations, most of which involved unjustified price increases.
Authorities issued 449 warnings to traders and suppliers, while financial penalties totaling AED 176,000 were imposed.
Monitoring System Tracks Prices in Real Time
To strengthen oversight, the ministry uses a digital price monitoring system linked to 627 major retail outlets across the UAE.
These outlets include cooperative societies, hypermarkets, and large retail chains that account for around 90 percent of the country’s trade in essential consumer goods.
The system allows authorities to track price changes in real time and respond quickly if irregularities appear.
Officials say monitoring efforts will continue, with more than 420 inspection campaigns planned during the holy month of Ramadan to ensure stable prices and sufficient food supplies for residents.