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, regulating administrative violations, penalties and enforcement procedures in the emirate.
The law establishes a legal framework governing how government entities impose administrative violations and penalties under Dubai’s legislation.
Under the law, administrative violations must be clearly defined in legislation issued by the relevant authority.
Mohammed bin Rashid issues law on violations, penalties, and administrative measures in the Emirate of Dubai. The Law aims to establish a clear and binding legal framework for government entities on administrative violations, penalties, and measures imposed for violations of… pic.twitter.com/fFF8gZ0aKS
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) March 13, 2026
New Dubai law sets procedures for publishing administrative violations
Violations will be classified into three categories, minor, moderate and serious, to guide the level of administrative penalty imposed.
The legislation also outlines rules governing administrative measures to ensure proportionality and transparency.
Authorities must consider factors such as the seriousness of the violation, its impact on public services and the public interest, whether the offence was repeated or intentional, and any corrective action taken by the offender.
Government entities may impose several administrative measures, including warnings, temporary closure of an establishment for up to six months, permanent closure, cancellation or modification of licences and permits, or the suspension of related projects or activities.
The law also sets procedures for publishing administrative violations.
Authorities must obtain approval from their director general and coordinate in advance with the Government of Dubai Media Office before making violations public.
Implementation decisions will be issued by the chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai. Any provisions in other laws that conflict with the new legislation will be annulled.
The law aims to promote transparency, fairness and accountability while ensuring public services continue without disruption.
It takes effect from the date of its publication in the Official Gazette.
