As published in Khaleej Times
By Wam/Dubai

A new law grants civil societies in Dubai a corporate identity, however, they must function as non-profit entities.

Regulating the civil establishments, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has issued the law No (12) for 2017 to accelerate the social development in the emirate.

A civil society can be corporate identities or legal (natural) individuals or both. It practises any of the activities specified by the law such as social, health, educational, cultural, vocational, innovative and humanitarian fields, or any other areas that could achieve the public welfare.

A director-general of the society development authority in Dubai determines those areas, which can be considered as civil society.

The law also encourages individuals and entities to pursue volunteering works and take part in community activities.

Existing as well as upcoming civil societies will have to follow the new stipulations after the new law comes into effect.

However, institutions that fall under the Federal Law No (2) of 2008 are exempted under purview of new law.

How is a civil society defined?

A civil society can be corporate identities, legal (natural) individuals or both. It practises any of the activities specified by the law such as social, health, educational, cultural, vocational, innovative, artistic and humanitarian fields, or any other area that could achieve public good.