Dubai shops booked for ‘false’ Eid promotion deals

Some merchants and dealers were found to have exploited the ‘24 hours’ facility extended by the Dubai government whereby some major shopping malls were allowed to remain open day and night during Eid Al Adha, according to a statement released by Khalid Al Boom, Senior Director of Promotional Events Control Section, at the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED).

The outlets announced false promotional offers and this was revealed by the DED inspectors who were on vigil lookout even after midnight.

Al Boom said during Eid Al Adha, the inspectors booked some trading shops which advertised promotional offers without obtaining a prior permit, since discounts and promotional campaigns are subject to conditions and special terms.

He advised merchants interested in offering discounts and promotions to stick to the rules and make arrangements for the necessary permits beforehand.

Al Boom stated that promotional campaigns mirror the positive image the retailing sector in Dubai is witnessing, which definitely has seen a big growth, especially due to the large number of shoppers who flock to the emirate from around the world.

He added that the retailing sector has benefited from the growth in the number of shoppers, particularly in shopping malls during Eid Al Adha.

Sources at the retailing sector confirmed this by reiterating that the growth in the sale of electronics, garments, household items, gifts, furniture and jewellery in Dubai resulted in much profit from them.

“The commercial control and consumer protection section is working to maintain the rights of consumers as well as of traders which is one of the basic functions of the DED. That’s why we have to follow up and keep watching such offers to ascertain their authenticity and credibility,” he added.-Khaleej Times

He said that DED inspectors work on a shift basis which enables them to keep a check round-the-clock.