Photo Credit : WAM
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has issued Law No. (6) of 2026 governing administrative violations, penalties and related measures across the emirate.
The new legislation establishes a unified legal framework for government entities dealing with administrative violations, ensuring greater transparency, fairness and accountability in enforcement procedures. The law also aims to protect rights and freedoms while safeguarding public services and the broader interests of society.
Fair and timely enforcement
Under the law, administrative penalties must be applied through clear and regulated procedures designed to prevent misuse of authority. The framework also aims to raise awareness about compliance with regulations and strengthen deterrence against actions that may threaten public safety and security.
Clear classification of violations
Administrative violations must be explicitly defined through legislation issued by the relevant authority. These violations will be categorised as minor, moderate or serious, allowing authorities to determine appropriate penalties while providing clarity for individuals and businesses regarding their legal obligations.
Administrative measures and proportionality
The legislation outlines rules to ensure administrative measures remain proportionate, transparent and directly linked to specific violations. Authorities must assess the severity of the violation and its impact on public services before imposing penalties.
Factors such as repeated offences, intent, negligence, harm caused and early corrective actions may also be considered when determining enforcement measures.
Possible administrative actions include issuing warnings to rectify violations, temporarily closing establishments for up to six months, permanent closure, cancellation or modification of licences and permits, as well as temporary or permanent suspension of related projects, activities or transactions.
Enforcement procedures
The law requires competent authorities to follow defined procedures when applying penalties. Approval from the Director General of the concerned entity must be obtained before publishing violations, and coordination with the Government of Dubai Media Office is required for public announcements.
Implementation decisions, including procedures for publishing violations, will be issued by the Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai. Any provisions in existing laws that conflict with the new legislation will be annulled.
Effective immediately
The law takes effect from the date of its publication in the Official Gazette, marking a step towards a more transparent and modern system for administrative enforcement in Dubai.
