Insist on getting back your change

A Gulf News campaign is highlighting a common malpractice amongst retailers across the country. Consumers are being duped out of 1 fils, 5 fils and 10 fils coins when they shop — simply because many retailers do not keep small coins in their cash registers. In some cases, petrol stations are giving bubble gum to consumers instead of money which is rightfully theirs.

Now, the Consumer Protection Department of the UAE Ministry of Economy has made it clear: Any retailer who doesn't give the proper change to consumers is breaking the law. The ministry is urging consumers who don't get their change back to complain to a hotline number and the case will be pursued.

The practice is illegal. Consumers have a legal right to their correct change. Retailers have a legal obligation to provide small change. There is no need for consumers to feel embarrassed by having to ask for money that belongs in their pocket.

And yes, contrary to popular belief, small coins do exist in the UAE. And they belong in your pocket.

Exercise your legal right to ask for change. Call the consumer hotline at 6005225 and complain if you don't get it.

Your change belongs to you.