A Guide to Environmental Regulation in Dubai and the Wider UAE

Analysis

As the UAE matures beyond 'emerging market' status, preservation of the natural environment is becoming an increasing priority for almost every governmental and quasi-governmental authority. As such, it is vitally important that investors, developers and prospective purchasers, of real estate assets in the region, are aware of the relevant environmental regulations and take steps to ensure compliance with those regulations. In this update we explore how such regulations apply in the Emirate of Dubai and the wider UAE.

The law

Federal Law No. 24/1999, for the Protection and Development of the Environment, provides the legislative framework for environmental regulation within the UAE. The key principles behind the law can be summarised as follows;

to protect and conserve the quality and natural balance of the environment;
to control all forms of pollution and avoid harmful immediate or long term adverse effect resulting from economic, agricultural, industrial, development programs aiming at improving standards of living;
to develop natural resources and conserve biological diversity;
to protect society and the health of human beings from activities and acts that impose harm to the environment;