Food items such as onions and tomatoes have seen price increases in recent days. Still, the UAE Ministry of Economy and Tourism has said the rise is temporary and linked to the ongoing regional crisis.
The ministry confirmed that additional quantities of these commodities have already been supplied to markets to stabilise supply and help prices return to normal levels soon.
Officials stressed that there is no cause for concern regarding the availability of essential goods, noting that markets across the UAE continue to have sufficient stock and multiple alternatives available to consumers.
Increased market inspections
To maintain price stability, the ministry has intensified monitoring efforts at points of sale across the country. Specialised inspection teams are conducting daily field inspections in coordination with economic development departments in all emirates.
The inspections aim to prevent unjustified price increases and ensure compliance with consumer protection laws and pricing policies.
Essential goods under price regulation
Authorities highlighted that strict pricing policies apply to nine key essential commodities, including:
- Cooking oil
- Eggs
- Dairy products
- Rice
- Sugar
- Poultry
- Legumes
- Bread
- Wheat
Retailers cannot increase the prices of these goods without prior approval from the ministry and the national committee responsible for regulating essential commodity prices.
Strategic food reserves
The ministry also confirmed that the UAE maintains a strategic stockpile of essential goods sufficient to cover market demand for up to six months.
Officials said the reserves are distributed across the country through a carefully planned system, ensuring efficient supply chains and quick responses to market needs.
Shipping and supply operations are continuing normally through all entry points, helping maintain a steady flow of goods to local markets.
Minister inspects Al Aweer market
Meanwhile, Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism and Chairman of the Supreme Committee for Consumer Protection, conducted a field inspection at the Al Aweer Central Fruit and Vegetable Market in Dubai.
During the visit, he toured retail outlets, wholesale stores, and commercial shops to ensure compliance with consumer protection laws and price transparency.
The minister stressed that any compromise on food availability or consumer rights is a red line, adding that authorities will take strict legal action against violations or unfair commercial practices.
He also confirmed that daily imports of fruits and vegetables at Al Aweer market remain normal, reflecting the UAE’s strong supply chains and the readiness of its strategic food reserves.
Thousands of inspections conducted
Since the start of the regional crisis, the ministry has conducted more than 7,100 inspection campaigns across markets nationwide.
These inspections resulted in:
- 567 violations detected, mainly related to unjustified price increases
- 449 warnings issued to traders and suppliers
- Fines totalling Dh207,250 imposed
Authorities said monitoring campaigns will continue to intensify in the coming period to maintain market stability and protect consumers.
