Dubai has taken a firm stance against intrusive telemarketing practices, issuing fines of Dh50,000 ($13,614) each to 159 companies that breached newly implemented regulations. The crackdown, led by the Dubai Corporation for Consumer Protection and Fair Trade under the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, underscores the government’s commitment to protecting consumer rights and fostering a stable business environment.
Out of a total of 174 companies that were warned, 159 were penalized for failing to comply with the regulations, which came into effect in August 2024. These rules are designed to curb excessive and disruptive marketing calls, ensuring consumer privacy while maintaining fair business practices.
The government emphasized that these measures are crucial for strengthening trust between consumers and businesses. By enforcing proper telemarketing conduct—such as restricting calls to between 9 AM and 6 PM, prohibiting calls to numbers registered on the national Do Not Call Registry, and requiring companies to inform consumers if a call is being recorded—Dubai aims to create a more respectful and regulated marketing landscape.
This initiative aligns with Dubai’s broader economic vision under the D33 agenda, which seeks to position the city among the world’s top three global destinations within the next decade and double its economic footprint by 2033. Economic growth has remained strong, with the city’s GDP reaching Dh339.4 billion in the first nine months of last year, driven by sectors like transport and financial services.
Authorities reiterated their commitment to maintaining a competitive, transparent, and consumer-friendly market, stating that eliminating disruptive practices will contribute to long-term economic stability. These new telemarketing regulations apply to all licensed companies operating in Dubai, including those in free zones, ensuring that businesses adopt responsible and ethical marketing strategies.