Dubai Municipality's role and mandate redefined under Law No. 18 of 2026

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has issued Law No. (18) of 2026 concerning the Dubai Municipality. The Law defines the Municipality's objectives and mandate, strengthening its role in supporting sustainable development, enhancing quality of life across Dubai and boosting the emirate's global competitiveness.

The Law applies to Dubai Municipality as a government department with legal personality and capacity to undertake all acts and activities necessary to achieve its objectives. The Municipality will exercise its mandate and powers across the Emirate of Dubai, including special development zones and free zones such as the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC).

Key objectives include building a future-ready city that enhances quality of life and wellbeing through integrated and sustainable urban planning, developing world-class public and recreational facilities, expanding green spaces, and developing infrastructure with advanced waste management. The Municipality will also advance the building and construction sector through globally advanced technologies while ensuring public health and food safety.

The Law regulates the executive body comprising the Director General, executive directors, and administrative and technical employees. The Director General will be appointed by decree and will be directly accountable to The Executive Council of Dubai.

Law No. (18) of 2026 supersedes the 1961 Order Establishing the Dubai Municipality Council. The Law will be published in the Official Gazette and take effect from the date of its publication.