During its inaugural meeting chaired by Undersecretary of Ministry of Economy

Supreme Committee for Combating Commercial Fraud examined strategies to strengthen legislative and regulatory frameworks, targeting unfair trading practices in the UAE

>> Al Saleh: “The UAE has fostered a vibrant and competitive business climate. The country’s continued dedication to strengthening its legislative framework against commercial fraud is reflected in the creation of this committee.”

 The Supreme Committee for Combating Commercial Fraud convened its first meeting under the chairmanship of H.E. Abdullah Ahmed Al Saleh, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Economy. During the meeting, discussions were held on reinforcing legislative and regulatory frameworks to combat commercial fraud nationwide, along with strengthening collaboration between federal and local authorities to expedite fraud-related data exchange. These initiatives seek to protect consumer rights throughout the UAE, strengthen deterrents, encourage ethical business practices, and increase the effectiveness of enforcement.

In this regard, H.E. Abdullah Al Saleh said: “Under the guidance of our wise leadership, the UAE has placed a high priority on developing a dynamic, competitive business environment for brand owners and entrepreneurs while enhancing ethical and domestic trade. Given that the UAE presently has over 1.1 million companies and economic institutions and more than 2,000 economic activities for various business endeavours, this focus is very significant.”

He added: “The Cabinet's establishment of the Higher Committee for Combating Commercial Fraud reflects the UAE’s constant commitment to strengthening economic legislation against all fraudulent practices. In line with national initiatives to improve the business environment, this initiative strengthens consumer protection and regulatory compliance. By promoting economic policies that promote sustainable growth and market confidence and protecting the integrity of investments, the Committee’s work directly supports the 'We the UAE 2031' vision.”

Committee Mandate

The High Committee for Combating Commercial Fraud is responsible for vital functions such as developing anti-fraud policies and legislation; fostering inter-agency collaboration for digital data sharing; optimizing commercial fraud intelligence utilization; implementing public and business awareness campaigns on fraud risks; conducting regular compliance inspections at retail establishments; and enhancing international cooperation through information exchange and joint initiatives. While maintaining regulatory compliance, these initiatives further enhance the UAE’s position in anti-counterfeiting indices globally. In order to enhance the UAE’s performance in pertinent international reports, the Committee also forges strategic alliances to fight fraud, offers knowledgeable advice, and works with regional and global stakeholders. Ultimately, this protects consumer rights and upholds market integrity by implementing comprehensive enforcement and preventive measures.

National Awareness Plan on Commercial Fraud Risks

The committee also discussed formulating a comprehensive national plan, in collaboration with key authorities and institutions, to counter commercial fraud. It further seeks to educate consumers and companies on fraud risks by emphasizing detection methods and leveraging the latest technological innovations for identification. It further aims to encourage reporting of unethical practices, while highlighting the detrimental effects of fraud on market integrity, consumer protection and trademark rights.

The Emirates Intellectual Property Association’s proposal to hold workshops, specialized programs, and discussion sessions for staff members in the public and private sectors was also reviewed by the committee. These initiatives are designed to educate inspectors on spotting counterfeit goods, improve their capacity to protect trademarks from copying and fraud, and distinguish between real and counterfeit goods. The proposal also aims to strengthen the private sector’s position as a vital ally in national initiatives to combat commercial fraud by providing them with the requisite knowledge and resources they need to fight e-commerce fraud.

The Supreme Committee for Combating Commercial Fraud was established through Cabinet Decision No. (47/5) of 2024, under the chairmanship of H.E. Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism. Committee members include H.E. Safia Al Safi, Assistant Undersecretary for the Commercial Control and Governance Sector at the Ministry of Economy, serving as Vice Chair of the committee; along with representatives from key entities: Brigadier Dr. Hamad Rashed Al Zaabi (Ministry of Interior); Ali Rashid Al Dhanhani (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security); Mohammed Rashid Al Rumaithi (Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development); Ahmed Al Awadhi (Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism); Salem Ahmed Al Suwaidi (Sharjah Department of Economic Development); Hassan Ali Al Shehhi (Ajman Department of Economic Development); Saif Salem Al Saidi (Umm Al-Quwain Department of Economic Development); Faisal Abdullah Alyoun (Ras Al Khaimah Department of Economic Development); Fatima Hassan Al Sharari (Fujairah Municipality); and H.E. Major General Dr. Abdul Qudoos Abdul Razzaq Al Obaidli (Emirates Intellectual Property Association).