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UAE retailers assure no food shortages, price changes amid airspace closures
Retailers report rising demand for essentials but assure residents that supplies will remain stable and stockpiling is unnecessary
- PUBLISHED: Sun 1 Mar 2026, 3:36 PM UPDATED: Mon 2 Mar 2026, 11:22 AM
[Editor's Note: Follow Khaleej Times live blog amid Israeli, US strikes on Iran for the latest regional developments.]
Some retailers in the UAE have reiterated that they have enough supplies to cater to the needs of the public, amidst the ongoing regional unrest and closure of airspace. Many of them have seen a marked increase in online orders and sale of essential supplies.
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“There will be no increase in prices and no shortage of supplies,” said M.A. Yusuff Ali, chairman and managing director of LuLu Group International, speaking at a press conference on Saturday evening. “We have a plan A and plan B to ensure that we have enough supplies in storage to meet the needs of the people in the UAE. We even have a plan C in place.”
Kamal Vachani, Deputy CEO and Group Director of Al Maya Group said that they had seen a rise in orders. “We are currently experiencing a significant increase in demand, including a 50 per cent rise in online orders and higher sales of essential items such as water, rice, milk, fresh vegetables, and fresh meat,” he said.
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On Saturday, UAE's Ministry of Economy said that it held strategic reserves of staple goods that were plentiful and "safe” and urged citizens and residents to avoid stockpiling.
No disruptions
Yusuff Ali, who had arrived at the press conference after attending a federal meeting to talk about food security, assured that the company was prepared to meet the needs of the public.
Vachani added that the company’s procurement and logistics teams were working around the clock with local and international suppliers to maintain steady supply and restore normal stock levels as quickly as possible. “There is no disruption to the supply chain,” he explained. “We encourage customers to shop responsibly and purchase only what is necessary so that all members of the community can access essential goods."
Carrefour on the other hand issued an online statement assuring customers there stores were operating 'as normal' across the UAE.
"Our shelves remain well stocked, our supply chain is strong, and we are fully prepared to provide the essentials you and your family rely on. While you may experience minor delays in delivery orders, our teams are working diligently to keep this to a minimum."
The retailer also encouraged the public to shop responsibly and purchase only what is needed, so products remain available to all, informing that "comprehensive contingency plans" were in place.
"Thank you for your continued trust – we are here for you," it added.
Spinneys also issued a public notice, informing the public they were operating their stores as per normal.
"Our focus is on serving you during the current situation. Whilst our supply chain remains in a robust position, and we have contingencies in place, you can also help by buying only what you need, and not resorting to stock piling. We appreciate your collaboration," it said.
Meanwhile, some online delivery services also assured its customers that services will not be disrupted. “Our teams are working around the clock to navigate tactical challenges and ensure we continue to provide the essential services you rely on,” wrote Careem in an email sent out to its customers.
“To keep our Captains safe, we are managing our operations with extra care, which may result in minor disruptions or delays.”
