Dubai issues new law to strengthen social protection, community services

In his capacity as Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, has issued a new law governing the Community Development Authority (CDA).

The law sets out the CDA’s role in developing Dubai’s social sector, improving community services and supporting the protection and empowerment of vulnerable groups, including children, people of determination and low-income families.

It also strengthens efforts to enhance social cohesion, promote volunteering and encourage community participation and responsibility.

Under the new legislation, the CDA will oversee social policies, licensing and regulation of social organisations and professionals.

It will also manage social service delivery, coordinate care for vulnerable individuals and ensure access to essential health, education and welfare support.

The law establishes a Social Observatory to study social trends, collect data and support early intervention on emerging social issues.

A unified system will also be introduced to manage social and humanitarian cases across the emirate, with all relevant entities required to connect to it.

In addition, a Community Development Fund has been created to support social programmes, provide financial assistance to eligible groups, fund community projects and offer emergency aid during crises.

The new law replaces previous legislation and comes into effect upon its publication in the Official Gazette.

Mohammed bin Rashid issues Law on Community Development Authority in Dubai.@CDA_Dubai pic.twitter.com/3UlW9E0DLq

— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) June 1, 2026