Page 486 - MOE ENGLISH PR REPORT - JANUARY 2024

1/17/24, 3:03 PM UAE Ministry of Economy reveals new consumer protection law
Strengthening deterrent measures

The second focus area of the UAE’s consumer protection law involves strengthening deterrent
measures to ensure retailers, traders, and producers fulfill their legal obligations, rebalancing the
relationship with consumers. Therefore, the new law includes 43 new obligations for businesses.
This aligns with the ministry’s strategic objectives to promote consumer rights and welfare, creating
a secure environment for transactions.

Moreover, Al Saleh revealed that most of the obligations outlined in the new consumer protection
law did not exist in previous legislations in the UAE. This signifies a qualitative shift in support of
consumer protection. The amendments contribute to providing goods and services according to the
highest quality standards. This ensures that they align with the “We the UAE 2031” vision to
enhance the quality of life for citizens and residents.

Collaborative efforts

Acknowledging the visionary directives of the UAE’s leadership, Al Saleh highlighted the country’s
cutting-edge legal framework dedicated to safeguarding consumer rights. He also emphasized
ongoing collaborative efforts between the Ministry of Economy and public-private partners. Hence,
this collaborative effort enhances compliance with the new consumer protection law in the UAE,
promotes ethical business conduct, and upholds service and product delivery standards.

Amendments and new mechanisms

The UAE’s new Consumer Protection Law No. 5 of 2023 incorporates several amendments to
Federal Law No. 15 of 2020. First, the amendments detail supplier obligations regarding spare parts
and goods repair according to customer demand. Moreover, they introduced mechanisms regulating
goods examination in laboratories during disputes. Furthermore, the new law specifies a specified
window of seven to 30 days ensuring the supplier’s obligation to provide spare parts or substitute
goods in case of defects.

Read: GCC countries projected to reach 3.6 percent and 3.8 percent growth in 2024 and 2025:
WBG

Penalties and fines

Al Saleh discussed the detailed list of administrative penalties and fines, comprising 46 types of
violations with fines ranging from AED100,000 to AED1 million. These penalties cover various
offenses. For example, a fine of AED250,000 will be imposed on the supplier in case of failure to

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