In his capacity as the Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, has issued Law No. (16) of 2023 to regulate urban planning in Dubai.
The Law’s main objective is to establish a comprehensive and efficient urban planning system that promotes investment, sustainable development, and citizen well-being. It emphasizes enhancing security and safety for the community while improving governance within the urban planning sector. The law also delineates the responsibilities of relevant authorities and aims to foster cooperation and coordination among them.
Furthermore, the Law seeks to optimize the preparation and implementation of urban plans, strategies, and policies, with a focus on monitoring and assessing their impact and adhering to principles of fairness, transparency, and accountability.
It will closely regulate and monitor urban planning activities, ensuring alignment with approved plans and policies, as well as safeguarding Dubai’s environment, biodiversity, and natural resources. Additionally, the Law aims to establish an environmental impact assessment and strategic environmental assessment system.
The legislation creates a ‘Supreme Committee for Urban Planning’ comprising representatives from pertinent authorities responsible for urban planning in Dubai. The Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai will appoint these members through a resolution. The Committee’s role includes setting general policies for urban planning in alignment with approved goals and strategies for urban development.
Dubai has announced a major urban planning law, wherein the previously established Supreme Committee for Urban Planning will continue its duties until a new Committee is re-formed under the provisions of this law, as per Executive Council Resolution No. (18) of 2021.
Starting from the effective date of this Law, the ‘Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan’ will serve as the approved structural plan for Dubai, according to Gulf News.
Law No. (16) of 2023 designates Dubai Municipality as the sole authority responsible for regulating the urban planning sector in the emirate.
The Municipality is also empowered to collaborate with relevant entities overseeing special development zones and free zones, if necessary, to carry out the tasks and responsibilities outlined in this Law.
According to the Law, no individual is permitted to undertake or authorize any development projects in Dubai without obtaining the required permits.
It is the responsibility of every person to ensure compliance with the applicable regulations in the emirate while executing development activities and adhering to the conditions specified in the issued permits.
In case any provision in other legislation contradicts the provisions of this Law, such conflicting provisions will be rendered null and void.
The existing regulations, rules, and systems concerning urban planning that were in place before this Law’s implementation will continue to apply as long as they do not conflict with its provisions until new regulations, rules, and systems are introduced to replace them.
This Law shall be published in the Official Gazette and will come into effect after a period of (90) ninety days from the date of its issuance.
