A new order and a fine for those who violate it have been issued by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid.
According to a new decree that was released on Friday, it is forbidden for individuals to establish farms or install fences on land in Dubai that does not belong to them.
It is His Majesty Decree No. 61 of 2023, which would regulate farms in the emirate, was issued by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who is also the Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and the Ruler of Dubai.
Issuing the decree in accordance with the food security plan
It is in accordance with Dubai's food security plan and its commitment to upholding the highest possible standards of public health and safety that the Decree has been issued. The preservation of the environment's integrity and visual appeal, the prevention of the proliferation of unplanned farms, and the promotion of the growth and welfare of the emirate's livestock are some of the important topics that are the focus of this initiative.
The terms of the Decree apply to farms that are allotted to citizens of Dubai, with the exception of farms that are dedicated to camel horse racing and are supervised by the Dubai Camel Racing Club, winter camps that are organized by the Dubai Municipality, or any other category that is designated by a decision from the Dubai Ruler.
In accordance with the Decree, the Office of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum for Procurement and Finance is tasked with the responsibility of supervising and monitoring the affairs of farms in Dubai, in conjunction with the Dubai Municipality.
Within the city of Dubai, it is the responsibility of the municipality, in conjunction with the Office of the Dubai Ruler, to grant approval for the regions and land that are designated for agricultural use. In addition to this, it will be responsible for the management of farm cattle, the monitoring of their wellbeing, and the provision of veterinary, preventative, and therapeutic services. In addition, it is accountable for the registration of animals and the management of problems pertaining to diseases and epidemics that are associated with livestock.
Establishment of the Farm Affairs Regulatory Committee
'Farms Affairs Regulatory Committee' will be established as a permanent committee on farms in accordance with the Decree. This committee will be in charge of farms. Representatives from The Ruler's Court, Dubai Municipality, Dubai Police, and the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (Dewa) will be among the members of the group. The committee will be chaired by the head of the Rural Areas Department at the Office of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum for Procurement and Finance. It is assigned with the responsibility of issuing decisions about the distribution of farms to citizens.
Rules governing the construction of farms
Additionally, the Decree establishes the norms that regulate farm construction as well as the responsibilities of those who are beneficiaries of farm allocations. In addition to this, it is stipulated that infractions would result in fines and penalties ranging from Dh1,000 to Dh100,000. Repeat offenses committed within the same year can result in a penalty that is doubled.
Existing beneficiaries are required to adjust their status so that it is in accordance with the provisions of this Decree within three months of the date it went into effect. It is within the purview of the Chief Executive Officer of the Office of His Highness to extend this period.
Every other piece of legislation that might be in conflict with this Decree is disregarded. As of the date when it was published in the Official Gazette, the Decree is now in effect.