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New Dubai law to speed up housing contract dispute resolution

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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.

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Will UAE petrol prices rise in August? Here’s what we know

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UAE motorists won’t have long to wait to find out whether fuel prices will increase in August, with the Fuel Price Committee set to announce the new rates on Thursday, July 31.

The revised petrol and diesel prices will take effect from August 1.

Will fuel prices go up?

After a welcome price cut in July, the outlook for August is less certain.

Global oil prices initially fell below $70 a barrel earlier this month, raising hopes of another reduction. However, prices have since rebounded sharply, clouding the picture for motorists.

Brent crude briefly climbed above $100 a barrel, while US benchmark WTI rose to nearly us$92. Abu Dhabi’s Murban crude also surged past us$105, reflecting renewed strength in global energy markets.

Because UAE fuel prices are based on average international oil prices over the month, the late-July rally could limit or even reverse last month’s cuts.

Current UAE fuel prices

Motorists are currently paying:

  • Super 98: Dh3.40 per litre
  • Special 95: Dh3.29 per litre
  • E-Plus 91: Dh3.21 per litre
  • Diesel: Dh3.60 per litre

These rates were introduced in July after global oil prices eased earlier in the summer.

How UAE fuel prices are set

The UAE reviews petrol and diesel prices every month based on average global crude oil and refined fuel prices.

The August rates will be announced on July 31 through official government channels and will come into effect the following day.

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UAE traffic fine: Why leaving your engine idling can cost you Dh500

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Abu Dhabi Police are urging motorists to switch off their engines and take their keys whenever leaving their vehicles, warning that even brief stops can increase the risk of theft, fires and other safety hazards.

The advisory applies to drivers stopping at shops, petrol stations, ATMs or mosques, where some motorists continue to leave vehicles unattended with the engine running.

Safety risks

Police said leaving a running vehicle unattended creates an opportunity for theft and could also lead to mechanical problems or fire-related incidents.

Motorists were also reminded never to leave children, especially infants, inside a running vehicle, describing the practice as a serious threat to their safety.

Traffic laws

Abu Dhabi Police also highlighted that UAE traffic laws prohibit leaving an unattended vehicle with its engine running.

Drivers who fail to comply with traffic rules and official instructions can face a Dh500fine under the Federal Traffic Law.

Authorities urged motorists to adopt safe habits by turning off the engine, removing the key and locking the vehicle every time they step away, no matter how briefly.

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Dubai Airports unveils smart gate pre-check for passengers

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Passengers travelling through Dubai International Airport (DXB) can now check if they’re eligible to use Smart Gates before reaching passport control.

Dubai Airports has introduced the new Smart Gates Pre-Eligibility Verification service in partnership with the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) to make immigration faster and reduce waiting times.

How it works

Travellers can instantly verify their Smart Gate eligibility through the Pocket Flights platform or by scanning QR codes placed across airport terminals and boarding gates.

The service lets passengers know in advance whether they can use the automated passport gates, helping them avoid uncertainty at immigration.

Faster airport experience

Dubai Airports says the new feature is part of its ongoing efforts to streamline passenger journeys and improve the overall airport experience.

By allowing travellers to confirm eligibility before reaching passport control, the airport aims to speed up immigration processing and make travel through DXB more seamless for millions of passengers each year.

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