The Abu Dhabi Business Centre (ADBC), part of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), reiterated the importance and effectiveness of its commercial protection efforts in enhancing business activities in the Emirate.

The commercial activity report of Q1-2022, released by ADBC, showed that warnings issued based on the periodical inspections executed by the Department, are in decline. A number that reflects a high level of awareness by commercial establishments on consumer and intellectual property rights and their adherence to the set laws and regulations.

According to the report, 51,149 inspection campaigns and supervisory visits were conducted during Q1-2022, an increase of 14.9% compared to 44,479 visits of the same period last year. The inspection and supervisory visits conducted included 23,293 visits in Abu Dhabi, 8,916 visits in Al Dhafra and 17,138 visits in Al Ain, while inspection campaigns completed by the Commercial Protection Team during Q1-2022 rose to 1,802 compared to Q1 of 2021 at 103.

The decline of warnings issued to commercial facilities and outlets reflects the active role that ADDED plays in protecting consumer rights and its commitment to implementing the proper regulations on all commercial activities. Warnings issued to commercial facilities and outlets dropped by 27.5% from 4,022 in the first quarter of 2021 to 2916 in the first three months of 2022, while complains raised by consumers were almost flat at 3,261.

H.E. Mohammed Munif Al Mansouri, Executive Director of the Abu Dhabi Business Centre, said: “The commercial activity report reflects ADDED’s commitment to providing the best environment for businesses and consumers. It provides positive indicators about commercial protection effectiveness, adherence of commercial establishment and outlets to laws and regulations, and enhanced level of awareness about consumer rights. Increasing the number of inspection and supervisory visits and campaigns during the first quarter came as part of our efforts to ensure that commercial outlets are observing rules and safety of consumers and employees in addition to support the business sector and protect intellectual property and consumers rights”.

The inspection and supervisory visits included outlets, groceries, vegetable, fruits, and fish markets as well as beauty and hair salons.

The Abu Dhabi Business Center (ADBC) www.adbc.gov.ae was established in 2013 to provide an ideal business environment. ADBC allows investors and businessmen to obtain all approvals and services related to economic licensing in the Emirate.