UAE Strengthens Food Security, Ensures Market Stability Ahead of Eid
The UAE continues to demonstrate its robust and advanced food security system, bolstered not only by local stockpiles but also by a comprehensive network of international economic relations. This network ensures that, in the event of global supply disruptions, the UAE maintains reliable access to multiple alternative food sources.
During an inspection of Lulu Hypermarket in Sharjah, Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism and Chairman of the Supreme Committee for Consumer Protection, underscored the nation’s state-of-the-art logistics infrastructure. With world-class ports, diversified shipping routes, modern storage and handling facilities, as well as an efficient air and land transport network, the UAE is well-poised as a regional hub for food distribution. This infrastructure underpins the country’s capacity to manage any supply chain disruptions and ensures the continuous availability of essential goods to consumers, particularly during high-demand periods such as the Eid season.
Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri highlighted the significant role that major retail outlets play in the market, stating that they act as a “direct link between supply chains and consumers,” and contribute to “regulating and stabilising prices by managing supply volumes and meeting growing demand.”
The inspection forms a critical element of ongoing efforts to monitor price stability and to confirm that food commodities are available in adequate quantities to meet consumer needs. The review also assessed retail readiness for increased demand during Eid, ensuring that a fresh and diverse selection of essential foods remains accessible to all.
The visit examined key retail sections, including fresh produce, bakeries, meat, fish, dairy products, and other essentials, with a focus on product diversity, quality, and ongoing availability.
Yusuff Ali M.A., Chairman of Lulu Group International, affirmed the retailer’s commitment, noting, “the group is working closely with its global sourcing offices and suppliers to ensure uninterrupted availability of food products and maintain price stability across its stores in the UAE.” He further shared that Lulu Group recently imported over 5,000 tonnes of essential products through 26 chartered flights and cargo vessels, underlining their dedication to keeping shelves stocked with both perishable and non-perishable goods.
Yusuff Ali M.A. also expressed his appreciation to the “UAE’s wise leadership and all relevant government entities for their proactive initiatives and support during the current circumstances.”
The inspection revealed a wide range of offers and discounts on essentials such as rice, oils, eggs, dairy, and poultry, resulting from increased supply and diverse consumer options. This affirms retailers’ commitment to meeting household requirements with high-quality, competitively-priced goods and reflects normal purchasing activities without any signs of stockpiling or panic buying.
The Ministry of Economy and Tourism, in collaboration with local economic development departments, continues to enhance market monitoring through dedicated teams and an electronic price monitoring system. Covering 627 major outlets—including cooperatives, hypermarkets, and large stores—this system tracks prices in real time and accounts for around 90% of the UAE’s internal trade in essential goods, supporting ongoing price stability and consumer protection.
The Ministry reiterates its commitment to take firm action against violations, shortages, monopolistic practices, fraud, or unjustified price increases. The public is encouraged to report any infringements via 8001222 or by emailing info@moet.gov.ae, thereby actively participating in the protection of consumers and the maintenance of market stability.
Team V.4-EM-UAE
