His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, in his capacity as the Ruler of Dubai and Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, has issued Law No. (16) of 2023, which regulates urban planning in Dubai.
The law aims to establish an integrated and effective urban planning system to encourage investment, sustainable development, and improve the citizens’ quality of life. It also emphasizes the safety and security of the community, enhances governance in the urban planning sector, and defines the responsibilities of relevant authorities while fostering cooperation and coordination among them.
Furthermore, the law seeks to enhance the efficiency of preparing and implementing plans, strategies, and policies related to urban planning, ensuring transparency, accountability, and promoting principles of justice and equality.
It will monitor and regulate urban planning activities to align with existing plans, strategies, and policies while preserving the emirate’s environment, biodiversity, and natural resources.
Additionally, the law establishes a ‘Supreme Committee for Urban Planning’ consisting of representatives from relevant authorities responsible for urban planning in Dubai.
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The Master Plan’ becomes the approved structural plan for the emirate, effective from the start date of this law. Dubai Municipality is assigned the sole responsibility of regulating the urban planning sector and given the authority to coordinate with other entities overseeing special development zones and free zones, if necessary.
The law prohibits any development works in Dubai without obtaining the required permits. All individuals must comply with the applicable legislations and permit conditions while carrying out development works. Any provision in other legislation that contradicts this law will be annulled. The existing regulations, rules, and systems related to urban planning will continue to apply until new ones are issued to replace them.