UAE Confirms No Ramadan Price Hikes Without Approval on 9 Key Food Items
Shoppers can expect stable prices on nine essential food items, with 420 inspections planned across the country.
Ramadan 2026 is almost here, and the UAE is making sure your grocery bills don’t spike. The Ministry of Economy and Tourism confirmed that price increases on nine key food items won’t be allowed without government approval, signaling strict oversight during the holy month.
The Essentials That Won’t Spike
Cooking oil, eggs, dairy products, rice, sugar, poultry, legumes, bread, and wheat are covered under the Pricing Policy for Essential Consumer Goods.
Other items will follow normal market rules, but these staples? No surprises at checkout.
Minister Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri said the ministry is working closely with federal and local authorities, retailers, and suppliers to ensure compliance and protect consumers.
420 Inspections During Ramadan
To keep things in check, the ministry plans 420 inspection tours across retail outlets, plus 26 meetings with major suppliers and importers. Teams will monitor pricing, verify compliance, and prevent commercial exploitation.
Violations — like raising prices without approval, manipulating product data, or colluding to hike prices — will trigger immediate legal action.
Strategic Stockpiles Ensure Supply
The UAE’s strategic reserves are robust, covering essential goods for months ahead. Bin Touq reassured shoppers that Ramadan markets are well-stocked, with supply levels sufficient for citizens, residents, and visitors.
“Our markets have abundant availability of strategic commodities,” he said. “This ensures all consumers can access goods without unjustified price increases.”
Stronger Laws and Digital Monitoring
Recent laws, including Federal Decree-Law No. 5 of 2023 and its Executive Regulations, enforce 43 obligations on suppliers to protect consumers.
Meanwhile, a digital price monitoring system now links 627 major outlets, covering 90% of essential goods trade. Prices are automatically compared to reference benchmarks to spot any unusual hikes — perfect for Ramadan oversight.
Online shoppers are also covered. Federal laws ensure secure digital payments, data protection, and e-commerce compliance, with penalties for violations clearly outlined.
Awareness Campaigns for Conscious Spending
During Ramadan, the ministry will run awareness campaigns to promote rational consumption, reduce waste, and educate consumers about their rights. A toll-free number (8001222) allows residents to report complaints or get guidance instantly.
Last year, UAE authorities conducted over 155,000 inspections, resolved nearly 94% of complaints, and recovered more than 550,000 recalled goods, demonstrating the effectiveness of these measures.
With these safeguards, shoppers can focus on Ramadan without worrying about sudden price spikes — at least for the essentials.