Dealing with Fake Products in UAE Stores

Fake Designer Bag in a Renowned Store? How Victims Can Respond in UAE

Consumer protection is a highly regulated domain in the United Arab Emirates. If someone purchases a counterfeit product - especially by abusing a well-known brand name - even unknowingly, it harms not only the consumer but also the entire market competition. The distribution of counterfeit goods is not only unethical but illegal. The following outlines what a buyer can do if they encounter such a situation.

What can a buyer do if they receive counterfeit goods?

A customer purchased a women's handbag from a renowned store, which later turned out to be fake. When he returned with a complaint, the store employees deflected responsibility, suggesting the item might have been purchased online. In such a situation, the buyer has several options as the UAE has strict laws protecting consumer rights.

Consumer rights in the UAE

Under the Federal Law No. 15 of 2020 (Consumer Protection Law), every buyer is entitled to accurate and truthful information regarding the purchased products. This is explicitly mandated under Article 4, Paragraph 2. The seller is obligated to provide a detailed invoice with the trader's name, address, product description, quantity, and price.

Moreover, Government Decision 66/2023 mandates that information such as name, type, ingredients, quantity, and country of origin be clearly displayed on all product packaging or labels, with the "Made in" phrase.

Distribution of counterfeit products is prohibited

Federal Law No. 42 of 2023 on commercial fraud states: importing, exporting, manufacturing, selling, storing, transporting, or possessing counterfeit goods for sale purposes is prohibited – even an attempt is punishable.

If a product is found to be counterfeit, the seller is obligated to refund the purchase price or provide an exchange, as stipulated in Article 7 of the commercial fraud law. This is not only a theoretical right but a practical one that the buyer can invoke.

Criminal consequences

Violations may result in imprisonment for up to 2 years and/or a fine ranging from 5,000 to 1,000,000 dirhams. This penalty is outlined in Article 17, which takes commercial fraud very seriously.

How can the purchase be proven?

A provable purchase is crucial. If there is an invoice, a bank transaction receipt, or any other document supporting that the purchase was made at the particular store, it strengthens the customer's position. The seller is also obliged to provide these details on the invoice, and their absence is already a violation.

What can be done in such a case?

1. Contact the consumer protection authority of the respective emirate. Each emirate has an official complaint system where one can file a report online or in person.

2. Gather evidence. Photos, invoices, and conversations can all be helpful.

3. Seek legal advice if necessary. If the store continues to refrain from cooperating, legal action may be necessary.

4. Do not give up! The law stands with the consumer, especially if fraud or deception can be proven.

Summary

Consumer protection regulation in the UAE is transparent, detailed, and must be strictly followed. Consumers have the right to original, authentic products and fair treatment. If someone purchases a counterfeit product – even in good faith – the law provides an avenue for redress. The key lies in documented purchases and proactive actions. During the process, being thorough yet decisive is beneficial.

(Source of the article: Based on Federal Law No. 15 of 2020.)