Now is the time to do your shopping, as over 10,000 products are set to be sold at a discount in cooperatives and supermarkets across the UAE during Ramadan, according to the Ministry of Economy.
The discount campaigns, held before and during Ramadan, have been valued at $81.74 million (Dhs 300m), which is an increase of $13.63m (Dhs 50m) compared to similar campaigns held during last Ramadan.
On Sunday, the Islamic Crescents Observation Project said the first day of Ramadan will fall on Saturday 27th May. Though the UAE Ramadan Moon Sighting Committee have not yet confirmed this date.
Dr Hashim Saeed Al Nuaimi, director of the ministry’s consumer protection department and rapporteur of the supreme committee for consumer protection, said discounts will range from 50 to 75% on most of the goods, with ‘selected’ commodities being sold at cost price.
The ministry will also conduct 450 field visits during Ramadan, which will cover cooperative societies, outlets, grocery stores, and meat, chicken and fish markets across the emirate. Last year, the ministry conducted 14,468 inspections, of which 11,605 were in related to consumer protection.
The ministry also said it expects daily imports of vegetables and fruits in Dubai market during Ramadan to reach 21,000 tonnes, while daily imports in Abu Dhabi to exceed 4,000 tonnes.
Al Nuaimi said the ministry will hold several awareness initiatives during Ramadan to protect consumers and enhance market stability.
Consumers can register their complaints on 600522225, with the call centre remaining open from 8am to midnight.
The ministry official confirmed that the number of fixed-price commodities for 2017 reached 4,500, which is up 15% over 2016.