Connect with us

News

New Dubai law to speed up housing contract dispute resolution

Published

on

Spread the love

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 introduces a streamlined legal framework to resolve disputes related to citizen housing construction contracts in the emirate.

The legislation, which will come into effect on January 1, 2026, is designed to protect the rights of all parties involved in housing projects, promote faster dispute resolution, and ensure construction timelines remain unaffected during disagreements.

The new law aligns with Dubai’s broader vision to enhance social stability, citizen satisfaction, and long-term urban development.

Key Objectives of the New Law

The law aims to:

  • Establish an alternative dispute resolution (ADR) system specific to citizen housing construction contracts.
  • Encourage amicable and consensual settlements while preserving contractual relationships.
  • Create a fast-track mechanism for resolving disagreements, with minimal impact on ongoing projects.
  • Ensure that construction progress continues uninterrupted, even during contractual disputes.

How Disputes Will Be Handled

To implement the law, a specialised branch under the Centre for Amicable Settlement of Disputes will be set up to oversee and manage housing contract disagreements.

The process includes:

  • Mediation phase: All disputes will first go through mediation, to be resolved within 20 days, with a possible extension of another 20 days if both parties agree.
  • If mediation fails, the case is escalated to a three-member committee (one judge and two industry experts), which must issue a decision within 30 days (extendable once).
  • Parties may appeal the committee’s decision to the Court of First Instance within 30 days.

Officials Welcome the Move

Eng. Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, Director General of Dubai Municipality, said the law is a “significant step” for the housing sector and will improve contractual relationships between citizens, contractors, and consultants.

“This law will help ensure the sustainability of housing projects, reduce risks, and ultimately enhance comfort and satisfaction for Emirati families,” he added.

Prof Abdullah Saif Al Sabousi, Secretary-General of the Dubai Judicial Council, described the law as a “valuable addition” to Dubai’s legal system.

“It offers an advanced model of resolving disputes without immediately resorting to litigation. With highly trained personnel and efficient procedures, it serves the public interest and citizens’ aspirations for a stable housing environment,” he said.

With over 35 years of experience in journalism, copywriting, and PR, Michael Gomes is a seasoned media professional deeply rooted in the UAE’s print and digital landscape.

Announcements

Ajman to launch new Rental Dispute Resolution Centre under 2026 law

Published

on

Spread the love

Ajman has announced the establishment of a new Rental Dispute Resolution Centre, aimed at streamlining landlord-tenant disputes and strengthening stability in the emirate’s real estate sector.

His Highness Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ajman, has issued Law No. (1) of 2026, formally creating the centre and replacing the existing rental disputes committee.

Clearer, Faster Rental Dispute Resolution

The new law introduces transparent and clearly defined mechanisms for reviewing and adjudicating rental disputes, with the objective of:

  • Protecting the rights of landlords and tenants
  • Enhancing confidence in Ajman’s property market
  • Supporting a stable and attractive investment environment

Jurisdiction and Scope

The specialised centre will have authority over all rental-related disputes between landlords and tenants, including:

  • Residential and commercial properties
  • Properties located within free zones

Cases will be handled using procedures aligned with recognised legal and judicial standards, ensuring fairness and consistency.

Boosting Market Stability

Officials said the new centre is designed to:

  • Speed up dispute resolution
  • Reduce litigation timelines
  • Ensure swift and effective justice

The move is expected to contribute to social and economic stability in Ajman’s leasing and real estate sector, while reinforcing investor confidence.






Continue Reading

News

Abu Dhabi updates traffic diversion rules, Darb tolls to boost road safety and efficiency

Published

on

Spread the love

The Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) has announced new amendments to Abu Dhabi’s traffic diversion regulations, aimed at improving traffic flow, safety and compliance at construction and roadwork sites across the emirate.

The updated framework strengthens oversight of traffic permits, enhances enforcement powers and introduces clearer procedures for emergency works.

Key Changes to Traffic Diversion Rules

Under the revised regulations:

  • Definitions related to traffic permits and No Objection Certificates (NOCs) have been updated to improve clarity
  • Traffic permits are non-transferable; any attempt to transfer a permit will render it invalid
  • Emergency works may proceed without prior permit approval, provided all road safety requirements are met
  • ITC must be notified before emergency work begins, and a formal permit application must be submitted within 24 hours if work exceeds 12 hours

Permit Suspension and Enforcement Powers

The amendments grant ITC expanded authority to:

  • Temporarily suspend issuing traffic permits based on site conditions or safety risks
  • Reject extension requests or cancel permits if requirements are not met
  • Take action against entities that exceed approved timelines or commit repeated administrative violations

The schedule of violations and fines has also been updated to reflect current standards, with conflicting older provisions officially repealed.

Training, Inspections and Compliance

ITC said the changes followed specialised workshops and training programmes for contractors, consultants and relevant stakeholders to ensure proper implementation of safety standards.

The Centre will continue inspection campaigns and field visits, with fines imposed on violators to:

  • Protect road users and workers
  • Maintain public safety
  • Safeguard road infrastructure

Changes to Abu Dhabi’s Darb Road Toll System

Separately, ITC (Abu Dhabi Mobility) confirmed updates to the Darb road toll system.

New Darb Toll Timings

  • Morning peak: 7am to 9am (unchanged)
  • Evening peak: 3pm to 7pm
  • Toll-free: Sundays and official public holidays

The Dh4 toll per gate crossing remains unchanged.

Removal of Toll Caps

The revised system removes:

  • Daily toll cap of Dh16
  • Monthly caps of Dh200, Dh150 and Dh100 for first, second and additional vehicles

Exemptions Remain

Existing exemptions continue for eligible groups, including:

  • People of Determination
  • Low-income families
  • Senior citizens and retirees

The Darb system is operated by Q Mobility, a subsidiary of ADQ, in coordination with relevant authorities.







Continue Reading

Entertainment

Dubai launches ‘Dubai+’ family streaming platform to boost digital media and creative economy

Published

on

Spread the love

Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council, has approved the launch of Dubai+, a new family-oriented digital media platform, reinforcing Dubai’s ambition to become a global hub for digital media and the creative economy.

The approval came as Sheikh Ahmed chaired the Dubai Media Council’s first meeting of 2026 at Dubai Media, where members reviewed sector strategies and plans to strengthen content creation, innovation and local production capabilities.

What is Dubai+?

Dubai+ will offer a wide range of family-friendly content, bringing together:

  • Local and Emirati productions
  • Arab series and films
  • International entertainment

The platform reflects Dubai Media’s integrated digital ecosystem strategy, responding to shifting viewer habits and the growing demand for high-quality, on-demand digital content.

“We believe media is a strategic force that shapes awareness, supports development and builds trust,” Sheikh Ahmed said. 

Boosting Local Film and Content Production

The Council also reviewed plans to:

  • Enhance local production capabilities
  • Support cinema as a cultural and creative industry
  • Invest in programmes that drive creative and economic growth

Samr Al Marzooqi, Director of Films and Production at the Dubai Media Council, outlined upcoming initiatives aimed at showcasing Emirati and international talent while strengthening Dubai’s film sector.

Next Phase of Growth

Mona Al Marri, Vice Chairperson and Managing Director of the Dubai Media Council, said the next phase will focus on monitoring implementation and ensuring measurable outcomes across the sector.

Secretary General Nehal Badri added that priorities include encouraging private sector participation, accelerating content development, and investing in talent, advanced production technologies and future-ready capabilities.








Continue Reading

Popular

Exit mobile version
https://headline.ae/