If you purchase a fake designer item, your UAE consumer rights offer strong protection. The law is clear—under Federal Decree-Law No. 42 of 2023 on Combating Commercial Fraud, selling or even keeping counterfeit products is illegal. Those caught can face fines ranging from AED 5,000 to AED 1,000,000, along with up to two years in jail. Retailers are also required to offer refunds or exchanges if the goods are proven to be fake.
Start by collecting proof. Keep the invoice, box, tags, and any authenticity details you received. Under the country’s protection laws (Federal Law No. 15 of 2020), businesses must provide accurate receipts, clearly show the country of origin, and give you the correct product information. If something feels off—like packaging errors or missing authenticity labels—you have the right to act based on your UAE consumer rights.
How to Use Your UAE Consumer Rights When a Store Refuses Refund
Your first step should be speaking to the store. Ask them for a refund or replacement. Article 7 of the Commercial Fraud Law says that if you have proof of purchase, the seller can’t legally say no. If the shop refuses, you can take your case to the local authorities. In Dubai, this means filing a complaint through the Department of Economy and Tourism. This is where your consumer rights Dubai come into play. You can file complaints online, through their app, or by visiting one of their offices.
To submit Dubai consumer complaints, be as clear and detailed as possible. Include the date you bought the item, why you think it’s fake, and attach copies of your receipt and pictures. The authorities will look into your complaint. If they agree the product is counterfeit, they’ll likely order the store to issue a refund and may fine the business.
If the case still isn’t resolved, you can raise the issue to the Ministry of Economy through their hotline (600‑522‑225) or website. You might also reach out to anti-fraud teams who can inspect or even shut down the store. They have the power to seize fake items and suspend business licenses under UAE laws.
By taking these steps—gathering proof, using your UAE consumer rights, filing Dubai consumer complaints, and understanding how to complain about a company in UAE—shoppers can push retailers to offer refunds or replacements for fake goods and assist authorities in taking action. Consumers play an important role in keeping the market fair and making sure brands stay honest.
