The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has taken a firm stance against deceptive advertising practices, introducing hefty fines for businesses and individuals engaging in such activities. Under the new regulations, offenders could face penalties ranging from AED 20,000 (USD 5,445) to a staggering AED 500,000 (USD 136,125).
This move comes as part of the UAE's ongoing efforts to protect consumer rights and ensure fair market practices within the country. The new measures are outlined in Article 48 of Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021, which specifically targets the dissemination of misleading information regarding products and services through various online and offline channels.
The UAE Public Prosecution, the government body responsible for upholding the law, has actively disseminated information about the new regulations and the associated penalties. Through social media campaigns and public announcements, they aim to raise awareness among both consumers and businesses about the importance of ethical advertising practices.
The specific actions categorized as offenses under the new law include utilizing information networks, information technology solutions, or online platforms to spread false or misleading information about goods or services. Additionally, promoting products or services through deceptive advertisements or employing fabricated data also falls under the purview of these regulations.
The implementation of these stricter regulations is expected to significantly impact the advertising landscape within the UAE. Businesses are now required to exercise greater caution and ensure the accuracy and transparency of their marketing campaigns. Consumers, on the other hand, are empowered with a stronger legal framework to safeguard their interests against misleading advertisements.
The UAE's commitment to fostering a fair and transparent business environment is further emphasized by this recent legislative action. The hefty fines associated with deceptive advertising serve as a strong deterrent and underline the government's resolve to protect both consumers and businesses operating within the country.