(MENAFN- Khaleej Times) Now, Arabic will be the main language in receipts, menu cards as well as call centres in Dubai.
According to a new initiative launched by the Commercial Compliance & Consumer Protection (CCCP) at the Department of Economic Development (DED) all commercial establishments have to use Arabic while issuing invoices and receipts, at reception desks and call centres. The move also makes it mandatory to use Arabic across menu cards, invoices and price tags, in addition to any other language of the business owner's choice. The invoices should have Arabic as the main language before the beginning of 2017 when CCCP will start monitoring the transition. Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, CCCP Executive Director, said: "The Department of Economic Development is committed to preserving the Arabic language and its position in the society, as well as to protecting consumer rights and the integrity of purchases. Consumers who don't know English also should be able to read and understand what is written on the invoices they receive." Lootah noted that Dubai being a preferred shopping destination for tourists and residents should offer varied choices and services to consumers in the emirate. "According to statistics available and studies we conducted, a large segment of consumers in Dubai belong to GCC and other Arab states. Hence, it's important to provide information and services in Arabic language, particularly while receiving enquiries and complaints and in after-sales services provided through call centres," he said. Lootah called on all traders and owners of major retail outlets to co-operate with the new initiative, which aims to consolidate the Arabic language, and to protect consumer rights. He said it would also help strengthen the relationship between merchants and consumers, and boost consumer confidence, particularly in the processes of transaction and follow-up.