Dubai Issues Law Regulating Use of Emblems of the Emirate and Government
New legislation establishes distinct emblems for the Emirate and Government of Dubai, emphasizing ownership, protection, and prohibited uses.
DUBAI: In a significant legislative move, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, has enacted Law No. (1) of 2025, which regulates the use of emblems representing the Emirate and Government of Dubai.
The Law designates an official emblem for the Emirate of Dubai, intended to symbolize its cultural identity, heritage, values, principles, and vision.
The design specifications for this emblem are laid out in two official models attached to the Law.
Additionally, the Government of Dubai is assigned its own emblem, which incorporates elements of the Emirate emblem, as specified in two other attached models.
As per the provisions of the Law, the Dubai Emblem is classified as the property of the Emirate, while the Government Emblem is owned by the Government of Dubai.
Both emblems are legally protected, aligning with Law No. (17) of 2023, which governs the emblem of the Emirate.
Use of the emblems by unauthorized individuals or entities is strictly prohibited, as they are exclusive to recognized government departments, public agencies, corporations, councils, and authorities.
Permission from the Chairman of Dubai’s Ruler’s Court is required for any other potential use.
The Law mandates that the emblems must be utilized according to a manual created by the General Secretariat of The Executive Council, which requires approval from the Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai.
The precise locations, contexts, documents, and seals where the emblems can be used are also specified.
Unauthorized use of the emblems, whether for commercial purposes, advertising, or any expressions that distort their value or status, is expressly prohibited.
Such use that contradicts the Emirate’s values or public morals is also deemed illegal.
Furthermore, individuals who observe violations of this law are required to report them to relevant authorities, including the Department of Economy and Tourism in Dubai and other regulatory bodies overseeing special development zones and free zones.
Criminal consequences for violators of the emblem regulations include a prison term of up to five years, fines ranging from AED 100,000 to AED 500,000, or both penalties.
These fines and restrictions are also applicable under the provisions set by Law No. (17) of 2023.
The newly enacted Law mandates that individuals or entities previously using the emblem without authorization must cease usage and remove it within 30 days unless they have obtained the requisite permission.
Law No. (1) of 2025 will be published in the Official Gazette and will take effect immediately upon publication, with implementation resolutions to be issued by the Chairman of The Executive Council of the Emirate of Dubai.