Shops in UAE cannot use customer information for promotions under new law

Abu Dhabi - The draft law has particularly set out tougher penalties for violators.

A new consumer protection law that imposes fines of up to Dh2 million on unscrupulous traders has been introduced in the UAE. It also tightens customer privacy rules, stressing that personal data cannot be used in promotions.
Members of the Federal National Council (FNC) on Tuesday discussed and approved the draft amendment to the consumer protection law. Once signed, it will allow customers to contact the Ministry of Economy to submit complaints about fraud and exploitation.
The draft law has particularly set out tougher penalties for violators, including a jail term not exceeding two years or a fine of Dh10,000 to Dh2 million, or both.
Part of the consumer rights protected by the law are customer privacy and security of personal data. This means any personal information provided by the customer cannot be used for promotion and marketing.
Customers' religion, customs and traditions should also be respected in providing goods and services, according to the law.
It also ensures fair and prompt settlement in case of disputes.
The law comprises 36 articles divided into five chapters and covers all goods and services provided within the UAE, including free zones. It also covers e-commerce, if the provider is registered within the country.
Saeed Rashid Al Abedi, chairman of the FNC Financial, Economic and Industrial Affairs Committee that reviewed the draft law, said: "As part of the law, the relevant authorities will obtain the correct information on goods purchased by consumers, and raise the awareness of consumers about their rights and obligations."
The law will be submitted to the President, His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, for approval and then published in the Official Gazette before it comes into effect.
ismail@khaleejtimes.com 

• Abu Dhabi