His Highness Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ajman, has issued Law No. (2) of 2026 to regulate how lost items and abandoned property are handled across the emirate.
The new legislation provides clear definitions for both lost and abandoned property. Lost property refers to movable items or assets that have value and can legally be owned but were unintentionally lost by their owner and later found within the emirate. The definition specifically excludes stray animals.
Abandoned property, on the other hand, refers to movable assets that hold value and have been intentionally left behind by their owner or by someone legally entitled to possess them, either explicitly or implicitly. This category also excludes stray animals.
Ajman Police responsibilities
Under the law, Ajman Police will be responsible for receiving reports related to lost or found items and abandoned property. The force will also take custody of such items, store them appropriately and publicly announce the discovery of lost property through suitable channels.
Authorities will also assess costs associated with storing, announcing and disposing of items when necessary.
Ajman Police will maintain dedicated records containing detailed information about each case, including the date and time an item was found, the location where it was discovered or left, the description of the property and the details of the person who reported or found it.
The police may also coordinate with government or private entities to assist with storing, selling or otherwise disposing of property when required.
Obligations for finders
The law requires anyone who finds a lost item to hand it over to Ajman Police within 48 hours unless a valid excuse is accepted by the authorities. Finders are prohibited from keeping or disposing of the item with the intention of claiming ownership.
When the item is submitted, police will issue an official receipt report detailing the description and condition of the item, the finder’s information and the place and date where it was discovered.
Owner rights and claim periods
The rightful owner may reclaim the lost property from the police before it is disposed of. If the item has already been sold, the owner may claim its value within five years from the date of sale.
If property is disposed of without compensation in accordance with the law, the owner still retains the right to track the item if it is found in another person’s possession and seek recovery of the item or its value.
In cases where multiple people claim ownership, the item or its proceeds will be awarded to the claimant recognised by a final court ruling.
Claims to recover lost property or its value will not be accepted after 15 years from the date the item was found unless a valid justification is provided. Owners reclaiming their property must also cover costs related to storage, announcements and sales, as assessed by the police.
Recognition for honesty
The law allows Ajman Police to recognise individuals who report lost items. Finders may receive a certificate of appreciation or be awarded a financial reward or a gift in kind. Any financial reward may be deducted from the value of the item or its sale proceeds.
Cooperation across sectors
The legislation requires all government entities and private organisations to cooperate with Ajman Police and provide necessary support, including handing over any lost or abandoned property in their possession within the specified timeframes.
It also authorises the Commander-in-Chief of Ajman Police to issue regulatory decisions needed to implement the law.
Any existing legal provisions that conflict with the new legislation will be cancelled. The law takes effect immediately from the date of issuance and will be published in the Official Gazette.
