Consumers in the UAE have been reassured that essential goods remain available, even as panic buying linked to geopolitical tensions has temporarily cleared shelves in supermarkets.
Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism, said the country’s economic system is designed to withstand regional and global uncertainty.
“We possess a broad network of trading partners worldwide, alongside proactive plans to diversify import sources and continuously open new markets, ensuring uninterrupted flows of goods,” he said.
The ministry said that markets across the country remain stable and fully supplied. It also confirmed that essential food and non-food items are available and that there are no signs of supply-chain disruptions.
Commenting on the supply scarcity issue, Spinneys said its operations continue business as usual.
“While our supply chain remains in a robust position and we have contingencies in place, customers can also help by buying only what they need, and not resorting to stockpiling.”
Meanwhile, Lulu Group CCO V Nandakumar said the company has taken additional steps to secure supply.
“Our hypermarkets as well as warehouses are well stocked, and there is no need to panic,” he said.
“As we have our own sourcing centers across the globe, we don’t forecast any scarcity concerns. We have also made arrangements to charter exclusive cargo flights, wherever passenger flights are disrupted.”
Al Maya Group also confirmed strong inventory levels. Group director Kamal Vachani said all its supermarkets have plenty of stock.
“I visited a few stores to take stock of the situation,” he said.
“We are very well prepared. We have basic essentials, groceries, FMCG products, including sanitisers. There is no cause for concern. There is no shortage of any items.”
Other major retailers, including Carrefour and Abu Dhabi Coop, have also assured customers that supply remains sufficient despite elevated demand.
Despite these assurances, authorities acknowledged that panic buying has increased pressure on store inventories, temporarily emptying some shelves.
“We urge the public to remain reassured and not to be driven by unfounded concerns, excessive purchasing, or stockpiling,” said Touq Al Marri.
