
Qatar’sĀ Ministry of Economy of Commerce (MEC)Ā has instructed 56 shops in and aroundĀ Sealine Beach to lowerĀ their prices following a surprise inspection campaign overĀ the weekend.
In aĀ statement on its website this week, the MEC accusedĀ some 20 eateries, 24 motorcycle andĀ quad bikeĀ rental shops, 10Ā shops that sell wood and two shops that offer travel gear ofĀ over-charging beach-goers.

In itsĀ statement, the MEC explained that it grantsĀ “temporary licenses” each winter season to shops atĀ Sealine in coordination with the Ministry of Environment (MOE).
These shops rent out areas for a small fee, in exchange for providing services atĀ appropriate prices during camping season.
”The violating shops were obligated to amend their prices, so they’re suitable for everyone, according to the agreement with (the ministry) and offer required services to all consumers,” the MEC said, continuing:
“They were also required not to change or increase the prices of services or their qualifications without obtaining necessary approval from the designated authorities in the Ministry.”
However, aĀ MEC spokesperson told Doha NewsĀ that the shops were not fined, because they have to be warned before monetary penalties are implemented, according to laws and regulations.
The ministry added in its statement that it would stand firmly against those who don’t abide by the laws and regulations to protect consumers, and that it wouldĀ step upĀ inspection campaigns to catch violators.
Complaints
The MEC’s announcement came afterĀ Al Raya published a reportĀ on Sunday about high prices at Sealine.

The article quoted beach-goers as saying that a small bottle of water cost QR5 instead QR.50, while two sandwiches and two cans of soft drinks cost QR59, instead of QR20.
Visitors added that many shops in the Sealine area charge much less for their products at otherĀ branches in and outside of Doha.
Complainants acknowledged the convenience of havingĀ the shops and restaurants onsite, whichĀ saved them the time and effort of driving a long way to obtain what they needed, but demanded that the government hold inspection campaigns there to regulate prices.
In its statement, the MEC called on residents to report violations and any complaints and suggestions viaĀ a free hotline number ā 1600. Consumers can also useĀ its new app service ”How much?” or lodge complaints viaĀ e-mail on [email protected], or on social media on MEC’s TwitterĀ account, @MEC_QATAR.
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