The Department of Economic Development in Ras Al Khaimah, through its Commercial Protection Division, has launched a new regulatory and awareness initiative titled “Be Alert and Shop Safely.” The aim is to enhance oversight in local markets and ensure that the prices displayed on shelves match those charged at checkout, thereby safeguarding consumer rights and fostering transparency in commercial transactions.
The department highlighted that the initiative seeks to improve compliance levels among businesses and their customers while ensuring price clarity and consistency between the advertised price and the checkout price. This approach aims to bolster consumer confidence in the business environment within the emirate.
Three core components underpin the initiative, including the verification of accurate displayed prices against final invoices, consumer protection from misleading or confusing practices, and intensified inspection campaigns at retail outlets to identify and address any pricing discrepancies.
The department confirmed that inspection teams from the Commercial Protection Division will conduct regular and surprise field visits to ensure compliance with consumer protection regulations, emphasizing that necessary actions will be taken against violators according to existing laws.
This initiative is part of the Department of Economic Development’s efforts to create a secure and fair business environment that upholds the rights of all parties involved and enhances Ras Al Khaimah’s status as a center for commerce with the highest standards of transparency and integrity.
The department urged consumers to report any discrepancies in pricing or illegal trading practices through official channels set up for this purpose, reinforcing the community partnership in supporting the monitoring system and protecting rights.