New Law Enacted to Enhance Social Development in Dubai

Dubai has enacted a new law focused on enhancing social development, boosting community welfare, and improving social services across the emirate.

Issued by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, Law No. (12) of 2026 addresses the role of the Community Development Authority (CDA) in Dubai.

This law defines the CDA's responsibilities in regulating and advancing Dubai's social sector, with goals to foster sustainable community growth, streamline social service delivery, safeguard vulnerable groups, and promote financial independence for UAE citizens. It also aims to bolster social cohesion, stimulate community involvement, and enhance social accountability.

According to this law, the CDA will develop social policies, propose relevant legislation, and oversee the licensing of social organizations and professionals in Dubai.

Moreover, the CDA will supervise volunteer efforts, ensure access to social services, and support initiatives that empower vulnerable individuals and their families, focusing particularly on children, individuals with disabilities, and others needing extra assistance.

Additionally, the CDA is tasked with reinforcing family ties, establishing community hubs, and collaborating with both public and private sectors to enhance social services in Dubai.

Care for Vulnerable Populations

The law contains specific provisions for the care of minors and individuals with limited legal capacity.

The CDA will provide social services to these groups as directed by courts, ensuring their access to healthcare, education, and other essential services, as well as offering necessary protection and care.

The Authority will also advocate for these individuals, protecting them from exploitation and arranging family-based or institutional care as needed.

Recognition of Low-Income Individuals

This legislation addresses low-income groups in Dubai.

The CDA will classify low-income individuals based on criteria approved by the Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, with periodic reviews based on economic and social factors.

Formation of a Social Observatory

A major aspect of this new law is the establishment of a Social Observatory, which will focus on social issues and trends across Dubai.

Collaborating with various governmental bodies, the Observatory will study data, recommend interventions, and pinpoint the root causes of social issues, while developing a comprehensive data repository that emphasizes the needs of vulnerable communities.

Coordinated System for Social Cases

The law lays out a unified framework for managing social and humanitarian cases in Dubai.

This system will enable the Authority and relevant bodies to coordinate assistance, evaluate cases, and monitor beneficiaries to ensure they receive holistic support.

Service providers will be mandated to connect electronically with the system and provide pertinent information according to CDA standards.

Community Development Fund

Additionally, the law establishes a Community Development Fund to aid social initiatives and support qualifying individuals and families.

This fund will finance social projects, deliver both monetary and non-monetary support, and provide emergency assistance when required. It aims to enhance life quality for beneficiaries, ensure social stability, and encourage citizen participation.

The fund will also foster partnerships with the private sector and invite contributions towards community programs.

Abolished Previous Legislation

This new law supersedes Law No. (8) of 2015 regarding the Community Development Authority and nullifies Law No. (15) of 2020.

Existing regulations from the old law will stay effective unless they conflict with the new provisions, which take effect following their publication in the Official Gazette.