The United Arab Emirates (UAE) government recently unveiled several initiatives aimed at enhancing consumer protection, securing public safety, and adapting to cultural practices during the holy month of Ramadan. These measures include the launch of a digital platform to monitor prices on staple goods, alerts about potential scams, and adjustments to the working hours for the private sector throughout Ramadan.
Responding to concerns about rising prices, the Ministry of Economy has launched a National Digital Platform for tracking prices of basic necessities across the country. According to the ministry, "The new tool will allow real-time monitoring of prices across different retail networks on items such as oil, eggs, dairy products, rice, sugar, chicken, legumes, and bread." This platform will help authorities track prices and prevent unauthorized increases, safeguarding consumer rights and promoting market stability and competition.
Starting from December 2024, retailers will no longer be permitted to raise prices on nine key goods without prior approval, aimed explicitly at protecting consumers against price hikes. Notably, there must be at least six months between two consecutive price increases for these staple items, beginning 2025. This initiative reflects the UAE's commitment to ensuring fair pricing and consumer protection.
Alongside economic measures, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation has issued warnings to the public about scams involving individuals impersonated as diplomats. The ministry emphasized, "All government services are securely digitized and meet high security standards," urging UAE residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities requesting personal or financial information. The ministry’s contact number for emergencies is +971 800 44444, reinforcing secure communication lines for the public.
Looking forward, the private sector will adopt new working hours during the upcoming Ramadan period, which begins on March 1, 2025. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation has announced this change, specifying, "The official working hours for ministries and federal authorities will be from 9:00 am to 2:30 pm from Monday to Thursday and from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm on Friday." Employers will also have the liberty to shift staff to flexible or remote working arrangements during this period.
The adjustments take place during Ramadan, which is expected to coincide with the peak tourist season, necessitating restaurants to accommodate guests throughout the day, extending opening hours late at night. Residents and visitors are reminded to uphold respectful behavior during Ramadan, including avoiding eating, drinking, or smoking during daylight hours, as well as dressing modestly.
It is emphasized by local authorities the importance of respecting fasting individuals and the cultural customs observed during this month. Non-Muslims are encouraged to take part in charitable activities and accept invitations to Iftar with gratitude, highlighting the communal spirit of Ramadan.
These initiatives reflect the UAE's dual commitment to economic integrity and cultural sensitivity, showcasing how the government is proactively working to navigate challenges and promote public welfare. Through vigilant monitoring of market prices and active warnings against fraud, combined with culturally-informed adjustments to working practices, the UAE continues to position itself as a contemporary and conscientious state committed to the well-being of its citizens and visitors alike.