In his capacity as the Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, has issued Law No. (5) of 2026 regulating the outsourcing of government services in Dubai.

The new law aims to enhance the efficiency and quality of government services while making them more accessible to customers. It also seeks to strengthen collaboration between the public and private sectors, support Dubai’s strategic goals, and create more private-sector job opportunities for UAE nationals.

What the new law says

Under the law, outsourcing allows a contracted company to provide some or all government services on behalf of a government entity, based on agreed terms and conditions. The regulation aligns with global best practices to ensure transparency, efficiency, and improved service delivery.

The law outlines the role of the Department of Finance in overseeing government service outsourcing, including setting the rules, procedures, and compliance requirements for such arrangements. Contractors must be licensed private for-profit or non-profit organisations authorised to operate in Dubai.

Who is allowed to engage contractors?

Government entities are allowed to engage multiple contractors for the same service, ensuring fair competition. Exclusive contracts are only permitted if a contractor is the sole bidder.

The legislation also defines the contents and duration of outsourcing contracts, rules for termination, and protections for contractor assets. It includes provisions on violations and penalties, and allows contractors to assist in collecting fines related to service users who breach applicable regulations.

However, contractors whose employees are granted judicial enforcement authority are prohibited from imposing fines or administrative penalties beyond those specified in the government entity’s regulations.

Who will monitor performance?

Government entities must also monitor and evaluate contractor performance regularly, using performance indicators aligned with their strategic objectives.

In addition, contractors are required to employ at least one UAE national for every non-national employee, with salaries and incentives determined according to applicable regulations and contract terms.

The law states that Law No. (12) of 2020 on Contracts and Warehouse Management in the Dubai Government will apply to contractor selection procedures and any matters not addressed in outsourcing contracts.

Government entities and contractors have three years to align their operations with the provisions of the new law, which comes into force upon publication in the Official Gazette.

The past two days have demonstrated the effectiveness of the UAE’s coordinated national response system, with authorities acting swiftly and in full alignment with established readiness standards.

Ali Saeed Al Neyadi, Chairman of the National Emergency, Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA), said developments were addressed with a high degree of professionalism and seamless coordination across all relevant entities.

“Over the past two days, the UAE has witnessed a coordinated national response involving all relevant authorities,” Al Neyadi said, noting that actions were taken under approved national frameworks and precise operational procedures.

Coordinated national response activated

Al Neyadi confirmed that the National Emergency, Crisis and Disaster Management framework was activated from the outset, with operational readiness levels elevated based on continuous and comprehensive risk assessments.

He said these measures ensured:

• Protection of lives
• Safeguarding of national assets
• Uninterrupted continuity of essential services

“What has been achieved reflects sustained institutional investment in preparedness, proactive planning, joint national exercises, and the development of resilient capabilities designed to respond effectively to a range of scenarios,” he added.

Field teams recognised for professionalism

The NCEMA Chairman recognised field teams who carried out their duties with professionalism and a strong sense of national responsibility.

Their efforts, he noted, reflected:

• High levels of preparedness
• Disciplined coordination
• Clearly defined operational roles

He said the response reaffirmed the national system’s capability to act swiftly and in an organised manner under approved plans and precise procedures.

Community awareness praised

Al Neyadi also acknowledged the awareness and commitment shown by citizens and residents.

“The cohesion, trust and cooperation demonstrated by the community reflect the spirit of responsibility that characterises the UAE,” he said.

He added that the alignment between institutions and society remains a cornerstone of national preparedness and strengthens the country’s ability to navigate challenges with confidence and composure.

Preparedness at the highest levels

“This phase has once again demonstrated that the UAE possesses a robust and mature national readiness system operating under a clear governance framework and coordinated response structure at the highest levels,” he said.

Authorities, he added, continue to monitor developments around the clock, conduct ongoing assessments and implement necessary measures to maintain the highest levels of preparedness.

“The UAE is confident in emerging from this period stronger and more resilient, supported by the vision of its leadership, the strength of its institutions, and the awareness of its society.”

Public urged to rely on official sources

In closing, Al Neyadi emphasised that the safety, security and stability of the community remain an absolute national priority.

He urged the public to:

• Adhere to official guidance
• Rely exclusively on approved sources for information
• Refrain from sharing unverified content

Authorities will continue to communicate updates transparently as developments unfold, he said.

Source: Wam

The UAE Fatwa Council has issued an official religious ruling confirming that celebrating the night of the middle of Shaban, locally known as Hag Al Laila (Haq Al Laila), is religiously permissible, while also outlining its spiritual significance and recommended forms of worship.

The ruling was issued as part of the council’s efforts to unify fatwas at the national level, offering clear guidance on both religious observance and the long-standing social customs associated with the night, which falls 15 days before Ramadan.

What is allowed

In its statement, the council affirmed that celebrating Hag Al Laila according to local custom is allowed under Islamic law, provided it does not contradict the principles of Sharia.

“It is permissible to celebrate the night of the middle of Shaban, known to us as Haq Al Laila, according to the custom of the people,” the council said.

“It is also permissible to give gifts on this night with the intention of bringing joy and happiness,  especially to children, relatives and neighbours, to strengthen community ties and family relations.”

The council explained that such customs fall under the legal principle that originally, customs are permissible, particularly when they promote goodwill, affection and social cohesion.

Worship on the night is recommended, not obligatory

The fatwa also highlighted the virtue of the night of mid-Shaban, citing narrations from the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), his Companions, and respected Islamic scholars.

According to the council, it is recommended (mustahabb), but not obligatory, to observe the night through acts of worship such as:

• Voluntary prayers
• Remembrance (dhikr)
• Supplication (dua)
• Recitation of the Holy Qur’an

Religious principles supporting Hag Al Laila

The UAE Fatwa Council outlined five key principles supporting the permissibility of celebrating Hag Al Laila, including:

• The permissibility of customs in worldly matters
• The principles that are not prohibited by Sharia are allowed
• The importance of spreading joy and strengthening social bonds
• Established narrations on the virtue of the night
• Scholarly recommendations to observe the night with worship

When is Hag Al Laila in 2026?

The night of mid-Shaban is expected to begin on the evening of Monday, February 2, subject to the sighting of the moon.

Across the UAE, families traditionally mark the occasion by children going door-to-door chanting “Atoona Hag Al Laila” (Give us sweets for this night), while exchanging treats and celebrating community togetherness ahead of Ramadan.

UAE celebrations and events

Several venues are set to host Hag Al Laila festivities this year:

• Global Village: Celebrations until February 3
• Expo City Dubai: Family-friendly activities from 4pm to 10pm

A night of joy and reflection

Religious scholars note that the night of mid-Shaban is a time for families to share sweets and smiles, while also turning towards prayer, forgiveness and remembrance in preparation for Ramadan.