Dubai issues new rules for food delivery apps, no more hidden fees at checkout
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Dubai has issued a new set of guidelines for online food delivery platforms, requiring them to fully disclose all fees, eliminate hidden charges, and ensure greater transparency across their services. The regulations were announced Tuesday by the Dubai Corporation for Consumer Protection and Fair Trade (DCCPFT), part of Dubai Economy and Tourism.
The move is part of a broader effort to raise industry standards, enhance consumer protection and attract more investment to the growing online food delivery sector.
Under the new rules, platforms must clearly display all costs before checkout, including item prices, delivery fees (and any variations based on location), service charges and taxes. No additional fees are permitted after payment and any pricing changes must be communicated in advance.
Platforms must use clear language and show all disclosures equally on websites, apps and tablets, whether on iOS or Android.
Information that could influence a customer's decision, such as hidden fees or selective disclosures, is strictly prohibited.
Platforms can only use the term “exclusive” for genuine deals, discounts or offers that are available solely on their own platform. These exclusivity claims must be factually accurate and clearly stated.
Food delivery platforms offering subscription plans must not offset user benefits by passing hidden or inflated costs to restaurants. This includes indirect charges like inflated commissions or bundled fees that are not clearly disclosed.
The DCCPFT stated that these measures will help create a fairer digital economy and foster trust in the food delivery ecosystem. Full guidelines are available on the Dubai Economy and Tourism website.
