Dubai Economy has announced a new initiative to certify e-commerce websites, as part of its efforts to protect consumers, resolve complaints and ensure best practices in online transactions.
The Digital Protection service is aimed at e-commerce companies offering their services in mainland Dubai, as well as the free zones in the emirate.
Mohammed Ali Rashed Lootah, CEO of Commercial Compliance and Consumer Protection (CCCP) sector of Dubai Economy, said the initiative will promote consumer confidence and encourage online transactions.
“We will certify e-commerce websites, in line with our consumer protection policies, and train them on complying with relevant UAE laws and regulations,” Lootah said. “The certified websites will display the consumer protection logo of Dubai Economy and will co-operate with us in resolving consumer complaints, irrespective of whether they are onshore companies or free zone entities.”
The initiative is the latest in a series of measures adopted by CCCP to promote compliance and global best practices in consumer-friendliness among commercial establishments, both online and offline.
With online transactions on the rise in Dubai, making e-commerce accountable and transparent is critical for safeguarding the reputation of the city as a competitive business hub, Lootah added. According to research, the total value of e-commerce in the UAE is likely to reach AED 36.7 billion (US$10 billion) by 2018.
“The Digital Protection certificate is aimed at e-commerce companies and not individuals,” Lootah said. “A number of e-commerce establishments have already shown interest in getting certified. E-commerce companies willing to get certified must contact CCCP. CCCP officials will visit the companies and train their employees on their consumer complaint resolution mechanisms. All services related to certifying e-commerce websites will be provided free of charge.”
