Shireen Kapoor
August 16, 2025
In a country known for its luxury lifestyle and thriving retail sector, the presence of counterfeit designer goods in the UAE raises both legal and consumer protection concerns. Despite the government’s strong stance against intellectual property (IP) violations, fake goods still occasionally find their way into the marketplace—sometimes even in legitimate-looking retail stores. So, what legal remedies do consumers have when they unknowingly purchase counterfeit designer items?
The UAE has enacted comprehensive laws to combat the sale and distribution of counterfeit products. Federal Law No. (37) of 1992 on Trademarks, as amended, forms the backbone of intellectual property protection in the country. In addition, the UAE Penal Code and the UAE Consumer Protection Law (Federal Law No. (15) of 2020) offer further safeguards for consumers and brand owners alike.
Under these laws, selling fake goods is a criminal offense. Penalties for businesses caught selling counterfeit items can include hefty fines, closure of premises, and even imprisonment in serious cases. But what about consumers who unknowingly buy these goods?
If you suspect or discover that you’ve purchased counterfeit goods from a retail store, here are the steps you should follow:
1. Gather Evidence
The first step is to collect all relevant documentation: receipts, product tags, packaging, and any communication with the seller. If possible, compare the purchased item with an authentic product to identify discrepancies in logos, stitching, material quality, or serial numbers. Photos and written records will be crucial when filing a complaint or pursuing a legal remedy.
2. Contact the Retailer
In some cases, the sale of counterfeit goods may be due to oversight or ignorance, especially in cases where retailers unknowingly source from unverified suppliers. Contact the store, present your concerns, and request a refund or exchange. A reputable retailer should be cooperative and willing to resolve the issue, particularly if they claim to sell only genuine products.
3. File a Complaint with Consumer Protection Authorities
If the retailer is uncooperative or denies wrongdoing, you can escalate the matter to the UAE Ministry of Economy, specifically the Consumer Protection Department. Complaints can be lodged online through the ministry’s portal or through the Dubai Consumer App, if you are located in Dubai. These agencies have the authority to investigate the matter, penalise the retailer, and order refunds or other corrective measures.
4. Report to the Department of Economic Development (DED)
In emirates such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi, the Department of Economic Development (DED) plays a significant role in regulating commercial activity and enforcing IP laws. The DED has a dedicated unit to combat counterfeit goods.
Shoppers can file a complaint with the DED, who may conduct inspections, seize counterfeit goods, and take enforcement action against the business.
5. Consider Legal Action
In severe cases—particularly where high-value counterfeit goods are involved or where a business has repeatedly sold fakes consumers may consider pursuing legal action. Civil lawsuits can seek compensation for damages, and criminal complaints can result in prosecution of the offending parties. Consulting a legal expert is advisable to assess the strength of your case and to navigate the court process effectively.
While legal remedies are available, prevention is always better than cure. Here are a few practical tips to avoid being misled:
• Shop from official brand outlets or authorised retailers.
• Be cautious of unusually low prices or exclusive deals.
• Research the product and its retail price beforehand.
• Verify the store’s authenticity, especially in online marketplaces.
The UAE takes intellectual property rights and consumer protection very seriously. Authorities are proactive in regulating retail practices and ensuring that consumers are not misled.
However, shoppers must also remain vigilant and assert their rights when they suspect foul play. If you have purchased fake designer goods from a retail store in the UAE, you are not without recourse.
By taking swift action starting from contacting the retailer to filing a complaint with the relevant authorities you can protect your interests and contribute to a safer retail environment.
At The ASK Consultancy, we advise individuals and businesses on intellectual property, consumer rights, and regulatory compliance across the UAE. If you need assistance with a counterfeit goods issue, get in touch with our legal experts today.
The ASK Consultancy offers expert legal advice in the UAE, specializing in corporate law, residency, citizenship by investment, and real estate. We help clients navigate UAE laws with confidence and compliance. We are also officially registered with DIFC, ensuring adherence to the highest regulatory standards.
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