New Regulations for Engineering Consultancy in Dubai
Dubai is set to implement a significant new law aimed at regulating engineering consultancy practices within the emirate. This initiative, spearheaded by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Ruler of Dubai and Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, is encapsulated in Law No. (14) of 2025. The primary goal of this legislation is to enhance the engineering consultancy sector in Dubai, aligning it with international standards and bolstering its capacity to attract global expertise and investment.
Objectives of the New Law
The newly introduced law focuses on several key objectives. It aims to ensure quality, transparency, and timely execution of engineering projects, positioning Dubai as a premier global hub for engineering consultancy services. Under this framework, no individual or firm can engage in engineering consultancy activities without the appropriate authorization. This regulation encompasses a broad spectrum of engineering fields, including architectural, civil, electrical, mechanical, and geological engineering, among others.
Licensing and Registration Requirements
To operate as an engineering consultancy office in Dubai, firms and individuals must possess a valid trade license and be registered with Dubai Municipality. This registration must clearly outline the scope of work, classification, and technical staff involved. The law prohibits consultancy offices from misrepresenting themselves or operating outside their licensed scope. Additionally, hiring unregistered engineers or contracting with unlicensed entities for consultancy work is strictly forbidden.
Unified Electronic Licensing System
In a bid to streamline operations, Dubai Municipality, in collaboration with relevant authorities, will establish a unified electronic licensing and classification system. This system will be integrated with the Invest in Dubai platform, as outlined in Decree No. (13) of 2024. The digital framework will facilitate the registration, classification, and issuance of professional competency certificates for consultancy offices, thereby enhancing both efficiency and transparency. It will also serve as a comprehensive registry detailing all licensed firms, their consultancy scope, and technical staff.
Establishment of a Regulatory Committee
The new law mandates the creation of a permanent Committee for the Regulation and Development of Engineering Consultancy Activities in Dubai. This committee, chaired by a representative from Dubai Municipality and appointed by the Chairman of The Executive Council, will include members from various relevant authorities and stakeholders. Operating under Decree No. (1) of 2023, the committee will oversee the governance, development, and strategic direction of the engineering consultancy sector.
Eligibility and Penalties
The law outlines specific eligibility criteria for engineering consultancy offices, which include:
- Local companies established in Dubai
- Branches of UAE-based offices with a minimum of three consecutive years of experience
- Branches of foreign offices with at least ten consecutive years of experience
- Joint ventures between local and foreign offices with a minimum of ten years of experience
Additionally, engineering advisory offices and audit firms led by registered engineers with at least ten years of experience are also covered under this law.
Violations of the new regulations can lead to substantial penalties, including fines of up to AED 100,000 (approximately $27,230). Repeat offenders may face increased penalties, which could include suspension for up to one year, downgrading of classification, removal from the registry, cancellation of licenses, or revocation of professional certificates. Affected parties will have the right to file written appeals within 30 days of notification, with the committee required to issue decisions within 30 days and communicate them within five working days.
This comprehensive regulatory framework marks a significant step forward for Dubai’s engineering consultancy sector, ensuring that it meets high standards of professionalism and accountability while fostering an environment conducive to growth and innovation.
