Cancelling a gym membership in Dubai has become a daunting task for many residents, who often find themselves entangled in rigid policies and unexpected charges. The process is proving to be far more complicated than signing up, with some individuals facing significant hurdles. For instance, Safiya, a 29-year-old Indian expat, encountered difficulties when she tried to cancel her six-month membership after three months due to early pregnancy. Despite already paying for the current month, she was required to submit a medical report to justify her cancellation. Even after providing the necessary documents, she was informed that the next month’s fee would still be deducted, along with a cancellation charge.
Safiya’s experience is not isolated. Many gym-goers in Dubai face similar challenges. Tala Chalabi, a Syrian expat, was only allowed to cancel her membership when she provided a doctor’s note proving she was unwell. However, when she wanted to cancel due to upcoming exams, her reason was deemed insufficient. Muhannad, a Sudanese expat, recalled facing immense pressure during phone calls and email exchanges when he tried to cancel his year-long membership. His friends even faced threats of a defamation lawsuit for voicing their struggles online.
The issue of difficult cancellations is not unique to Dubai. In response to similar challenges, the United States’ Federal Trade Commission (FTC) introduced a “click-to-cancel” rule in October 2024. Despite these international developments, major gym chains in Dubai remain unresponsive to complaints about their cancellation policies. Residents often share their experiences in online forums, describing the process as a “nightmare” and calling for more transparent and consumer-friendly policies.
The lack of clear and flexible cancellation policies has led to widespread frustration among gym members. Many have reported losing money despite following the required procedures, highlighting the need for more consumer protection. As the fitness industry continues to grow, it is essential for gyms to adopt more user-friendly and transparent practices to maintain trust with their customers.
In conclusion, the challenges faced by gym members in Dubai underscore the importance of reviewing and reforming cancellation policies. By adopting more flexible and consumer-centric approaches, gyms can improve their reputation and build stronger relationships with their members.
