Respiratory masks can be found on online retailers from anything between AED49, to AED249 and beyond.

This comes as concerns grow over the spread of the Covid-19.

It’s worth noting the Department of Economy in Dubai (DED) has instructed retail outlets (and licenced online retailers) not to increase the price of masks, asking consumers to file complaints if they spot a price difference.

Communication from the Ministry of Health and Prevention on Twitter does not mention a mask among preventative measures

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The UAE Has NOT Had A COVID-19 Related Death For Well Over A MonthThose Who Come Into Contact With COVID-19 Positive Cases Must Do A PCR Test On Day 1 & 7BREAKING: Non-Vaccinated Tourists Can Now Enter Events & Attractions In Abu Dhabi

While travel, please take the necessary precautions#فيروس_كورونا_المستجد #فيروس_كورونا#وزارة_الصحة_ووقاية_المجتمع_الإمارات#coronavirus #covid19 #Mohap_uae pic.twitter.com/yZlbU4Teka

— وزارة الصحة ووقاية المجتمع – MOHAP UAE (@mohapuae) February 24, 2020

The DED has asked retailers not to hike prices

However, with many retailers selling out of the masks, people are turning to online channels to purchase, and here’s where you’ll find the price hikes.

DED instructs pharmacies and medical supply businesses not to increase masks prices @Dubai_DED

— حماية المستهلك – دبي Consumer Protection (@dubai_consumers) January 29, 2020

A respiratory mask on Amazon for AED275

A respiratory mask for AED146

A UAE resident noted he purchased a mask for AED1.5

*Note if you’re purchasing a mask, look for the medicated versions and change it regularly.

I just purchased 10 masks from a store 1.5 aed/mask, is this right price? i think no. when i asked its 1 aed he said its medicated thats why. I think this price is high.

Shop name : Saba Super Market
Location Al rigga muraqabad infront of Eureka @Dubai_DED @dubai_consumers

— faisal khan (@FLiaquat) January 30, 2020