Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum introduces legislation to resolve building contract disputes for UAE citizens, effective January 2026
In a significant move aimed at protecting the rights of Emirati homeowners, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has issued a new law that establishes a legal framework for resolving disputes related to citizen housing construction contracts in Dubai. The law is set to take effect on January 1, 2026.
The legislation underscores the leadership’s ongoing commitment to reinforcing legal safeguards around housing developments tailored for Emirati families. By introducing a clear mechanism to handle conflicts arising between citizens and contractors or developers, the law is expected to enhance transparency, accountability, and fairness in housing projects funded or supported by the government.
This initiative comes as part of broader efforts by Dubai’s government to strengthen social stability and ensure the well-being of its citizens, particularly in areas that directly impact their quality of life—like housing and infrastructure.
The legal framework will provide a structured avenue for both preventive measures and formal arbitration, encouraging quicker resolution of issues while reducing the burden on traditional courts. It is also expected to streamline regulatory oversight of construction standards and contractual obligations, ensuring better outcomes for Emirati homeowners.
By announcing the law well in advance of its implementation date, the Dubai government is giving stakeholders—construction companies, legal professionals, and residents—ample time to align with the forthcoming regulations. This forward-thinking approach reaffirms Dubai’s position as a leader in citizen-centric governance and legal reform.
As 2026 approaches, further details and guidelines on the dispute resolution mechanisms are expected to be released, providing clarity on the roles of various governmental bodies and legal entities in enforcing the new law.
