Dubai Issues Law Regulating Municipality Mandate, Urban Planning, and Construction Activities

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, has issued Law No. (18) of 2026 concerning Dubai Municipality, Arabian Business reported. The new legislation modernises the municipality's legislative framework to support economic growth, urban sustainability, and private sector collaboration, replacing its founding order of 1961.

Under the law, Dubai Municipality's jurisdiction and mandate cover the entire emirate, including special development zones and free zones such as the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), unless explicitly exempted by specific legislation. The entity is tasked with developing an integrated urban planning framework that balances economic expansion with heritage preservation, alongside expanding green spaces, recreational facilities, and integrated waste management systems.

The law outlines municipality objectives including strengthening public-private partnerships, adopting advanced global technologies across the construction sector, and enforcing international standards in public safety, health, and food security. The municipality is also authorised to outsource any of its assigned powers or functions to public or private entities through formal agreements specifying operational standards, rights, and obligations.

The legislation formalises the municipality's executive structure under a Director General appointed by decree by the Ruler of Dubai. The Director General will report directly to the Executive Council of Dubai and oversee executive directors and technical staff. Law No. (18) of 2026 takes effect upon publication in the Official Gazette, with existing local orders, regulations, and bylaws remaining active where they do not conflict with the new law.