Abu Dhabi sees 6.9% increase in consumer complaints in 2023 – News

The Abu Dhabi Business Centre, part of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), reported an 83.4 per cent growth in the number of consumer cases resolved during 2023.

The number of consumer complaints in the capital reached 24,833 in 2023, an increase of 6.9 percent from 23,232 cases in 2022, while the total estimated value of goods and services from reported complaints was 26.64 million dirhams.

Despite the increase in the number of complaints, the Department of Consumer Protection resolved the majority of complaints and referred 1,041 complaints to judicial authorities.

“We believe that preserving consumer rights and intellectual property while ensuring the quality of goods and services is an important basis for attracting quality investments,” said Mohammed Munif Al Mansouri, CEO of Abu Dhabi Business Center .

“That consumers know their rights, express their opinions and file complaints contribute to the improvement of services and increase the vitality and competitiveness of their commercial sector. We are working to increase awareness and knowledge of consumer rights and speed up and improve complaint processing and resolution. Our success in resolving 83.4 per cent of complaints reflects the effectiveness of procedures to ensure that Abu Dhabi remains the preferred destination for talent, business and investment,” Al Mansouri added.

In addition to receiving and resolving consumer complaints, the Consumer Protection Department organizes field visits to commercial establishments, retail outlets, grocery stores, beauty salons and beauty centers, as well as to vegetable, fruit and vegetable markets. and fish in various locations in Abu Dhabi, to ensure the provision of the best conditions for achieving growth and prosperity while preserving consumer rights.

The data also indicated a notable increase in the number of complaints about auto maintenance and parts, which rose from 968 in 2022 to 1,493 last year, an increase of 54 percent. Those complaints represented 6 percent of the total number of reported cases.

During 2023, complaints related to electrical and electronic appliances, mobile phones and consumer items reached 579, while household goods and furniture reached 467. Consumers filed 372 complaints regarding textiles, clothing, footwear, accessories and optics, while complaints related to salons, beauty centers, cosmetics, skin and hair care totaled 360.

In addition, shipping and delivery services received 318 complaints and those related to gyms reached 26.

Complaints received by the Department of Consumer Protection covered various activities, including wedding and event planning, discounts, building materials, restaurants, cafes, food and tobacco products.