As global fuel prices surge and regional tensions continue to put pressure on supply chains, the UAE government is taking firm action to shield consumers from unjustified price increases on essential goods.
The Ministry of Economy and Tourism has launched an aggressive nationwide inspection campaign, conducting over 8,168 market visits since the onset of the regional conflict in late February 2026. The crackdown has resulted in 729 warnings and 216 penalties issued to retailers and suppliers, with fines ranging from Dh2,000 to Dh200,000.
Protecting the Essentials
Nine key consumer goods are currently under strict price controls in the UAE: cooking oil, eggs, dairy products, rice, sugar, poultry, legumes, bread, and wheat. Retailers cannot raise prices on any of these items without prior approval from the Ministry. So far, over 560 violations — mostly unjustified price hikes — have been recorded since the crisis began.
Authorities also addressed over 2,400 consumer complaints, primarily related to food price increases. Minor fluctuations in items like onions and tomatoes have been acknowledged as temporary and linked to regional supply disruptions, with additional stock already delivered to markets.
Fuel Costs Are Rising — But Controlled
April 2026 saw UAE fuel prices jump sharply, with Super 98 petrol rising to Dh3.39 per litre and diesel surging to Dh4.69 — increases of over 30% and 72% respectively from March. These adjustments reflect the UAE’s deregulated fuel pricing model, which aligns domestic rates with global crude benchmarks monthly.
Despite this, the government’s real-time electronic monitoring system — linked to 627 major retail outlets — continues tracking compliance across approximately 90% of domestic trade in essential goods.
How to Report a Violation
UAE residents can report unjustified price hikes by calling 600545555 or filing a complaint at consumerrights.ae. The message from authorities is clear: market stability and consumer protection remain non-negotiable, even in challenging times.
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