His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has issued Law No. (14) of 2025 to regulate the professional practice of engineering consultancy offices in the emirate.
The new legislation aims to elevate Dubai’s engineering consultancy sector to international standards by introducing a classification system for service providers based on their technical, financial, and managerial competence. It seeks to boost investment, streamline project execution, and attract global firms, reinforcing Dubai’s position as a leading hub for engineering consultancy services.
Under the law, no entity may conduct engineering consultancy activities without proper authorisation from Dubai Municipality. The regulation covers all engineering disciplines, including architectural, civil, electrical, mechanical, and geological fields. Offices must hold a valid trade licence and be registered with the Municipality, which will oversee licensing, classification, and professional competency certification.
To support implementation, Dubai Municipality will establish a unified electronic system linked to the “Invest in Dubai” platform to manage registration, evaluation, and classification of consultancy offices across the emirate.
A permanent Committee for the Regulation and Development of Engineering Consultancy Activities will also be formed, chaired by a representative from Dubai Municipality and including members from relevant authorities and stakeholders.
Violations of the law may result in fines of up to AED 100,000, suspension of offices, downgrading of classification, or cancellation of licences. Affected parties may appeal within 30 days of notification.
The law, which repeals Local Order No. (89) of 1994, will take effect six months after its publication in the Official Gazette.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
