Bought faulty school supplies in Dubai? Here is how parents can file a complaint

Parents in Dubai who encounter issues with school supplies like bags, bottles, or electronic devices should initially discuss the problem with the store's management or customer service team. Ahmad Ahli, Acting Director of the Dubai Consumer Protection Department, recommends consumers present their concerns to the retailer before escalating the matter to the consumer protection office.

Before making a purchase, shoppers should review the retailer's return, exchange, and warranty policies, especially for electronics or products with specific after-sales conditions. Consumers should be aware of their rights if a product is faulty, damaged, or does not function as advertised. A complaint may be filed if the product has a defect, leaks, or suffers damage.

It is crucial to retain proof of purchase, such as a receipt, when lodging a complaint with Dubai Consumer Protection. If the original receipt is unavailable, any form of transaction evidence showing the purchase from the retailer is acceptable. Photographing the receipt promptly after the purchase can help prevent issues if the paper copy is lost or damaged.

For online shoppers, keeping electronic receipts and order confirmations is essential, as they can serve as proof of purchase if problems arise after the transaction. Dubai Consumer Protection has ramped up its retail inspections during the back-to-school shopping season, conducting nearly 800 inspections. Consumers can file complaints through the department's AI-supported WhatsApp channel or on the government website, consumerrights.gov.ae, when rights have been breached.