On the third day of Eid al-Fitr, Abdullah bin Touq Al Mari, the Minister of Economy and Tourism and Chair of the High Committee for Consumer Protection, conducted an inspection at the Lulu Hypermarket in Sharjah. This visit is part of ongoing efforts to monitor price stability in markets and ensure adequate availability of food products to meet the needs of consumers during the current regional crisis.
The objective of the tour was to evaluate the readiness of stores to handle the increased demand during the festive period and to confirm that essential fresh and diverse food products were available in sufficient quantities. This reflects the ministry’s commitment to consumer comfort and market stability. The inspection covered various sections, including fresh food, baked goods, meats, fish, and dairy products, to ensure that there was a good variety and quality of offerings available for all consumers.
Minister Abdullah bin Touq Al Mari stated that the UAE has a robust and advanced food security system that relies not only on local supplies but also on a broad network of economic relations with global markets, allowing access to multiple alternatives for food sources in case of supply chain disruptions.
He further emphasized, “The UAE possesses a sophisticated logistics infrastructure that includes world-class ports, multiple shipping routes, alternative shipping paths, and an effective air and land transport network, in addition to modern storage and handling facilities. This positions the country as a regional hub for food distribution, enabling it to handle any supply chain disruptions without causing interruptions in the markets, ensuring that essential goods remain available for consumers at all times, including during peak seasons and holidays.”
He noted that major retail outlets in the nation play a vital role in ensuring the smooth flow of products in the markets, acting as a direct link between supply chains and consumers. These centers also help regulate prices and maintain stability by organizing the displayed quantities to meet rising demand.
The inspection revealed various promotions and discounts on consumer goods such as rice, oils, eggs, dairy products, and poultry, driven by increased supply and diverse options for consumers. This indicates the retail outlets’ commitment to meet the needs of families during peak seasons and holidays, providing essential products of high quality at competitive prices that support purchasing power, while consumer buying activity continues normally without signs of stockpiling or unusual demand, thanks to ample supply and stable markets.
Yusuf Ali Musaliam, Chairman of Lulu Group International, stated, “We are closely working with our global supply offices and other manufacturers to ensure uninterrupted availability of food products and maintain stable prices across all our stores in the UAE.”
He added, “So far, we have imported over 5,000 tons of fruits, vegetables, meats, and other perishable and non-perishable food products from various parts of the world through 26 chartered flights and shipping vessels.”
He concluded by expressing gratitude to the leadership of this great nation for their visionary approach and to all governmental entities for their proactive initiatives and support during these challenging times.
In light of the current conditions, the Ministry of Economy and Tourism, in collaboration with economic development departments, continues its efforts to enhance market monitoring through specialized task forces. They are also utilizing the ministry’s electronic price monitoring system, which helps track prices in real-time. This system covers 627 major retail outlets, including cooperative societies and hypermarkets, representing approximately 90% of the domestic trade volume for essential consumer goods in the UAE, thereby promoting price stability and protecting consumer interests.
The ministry confirms that if any market violations, shortages in goods, monopolistic practices, fraudulent activities, or any unfair business practices, including unjustified price hikes, are reported, the public is encouraged to contact it directly at the number 8001222 or via email at [email protected] to report any violations, which will help protect consumer rights, stabilize the markets, and monitor the performance of retail outlets.