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One for two: McDonald’s Soft Serve Image Credit: Supplied

DUBAI: After nearly 20 years of launching the ice cream cone at Dh1, McDonalds has now increased the price by 100 per cent at seven branches in Dubai. The new price that came into effect in September is due to ‘a number of factors influenced by location,’ as an official McDonald’s spokesperson said.

The seven branches where the ice cream is pricier than others include those at Dubai Mall, Kidzania (inside Dubai Mall), Al Ghurair Centre, Al Ghurair Centre extension, JBR, Al Nasr and Spinneys – Al Mankhool.

Food industry experts say a price correction could be just around the corner.

“When everything from transport to raw materials has become costlier, it is quite a challenge to not alter prices of your best selling products. We are going to see more and more food chains increase prices in the coming months, especially after VAT comes in the picture,” said Ahmad Al Muhairi, supply chain manager at Brasil Foods Company based in Abu Dhabi.

An Indian resident who lives near BurJuman Mall said her weekly sweet fix got expensive a month ago, but it doesn’t break the bank.

“It’s hardly a dirham extra, but all the other things that are getting expensive is what I am worried about, like my grocery bills,” said Chayya Bhatia who has been in Dubai for 12 years.