In a major step to reinforce public integrity and strengthen the emirate’s legal framework, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Ruler of Dubai and UAE Prime Minister, has officially introduced a sweeping law regulating the treatment of lost and abandoned property.
The new legislation establishes strict reporting requirements, criminalizes misuse, and sets penalties of up to AED 200,000 marking one of Dubai’s most stringent asset-protection measures to date.

A Strategic Legal Reform for a Rapidly Growing City

Dubai’s rising population, expanding tourism flows, and high-density commercial zones have significantly increased the volume of lost or unclaimed items handled every day by authorities, airports, malls and transport hubs.
 The new law arrives as part of a broader effort to:

• enhance public trust,
• reinforce accountability,
• modernize legal systems,
• and align Dubai with international best practices in asset protection.

Officials say the goal is to eliminate exploitation of found property, reduce disputes, and ensure that all lost and abandoned items move through a transparent and traceable process.

Key Provisions of the New Dubai Law

 1. Mandatory Reporting of Lost Property

Anyone who finds valuable property must promptly notify:

• Dubai Police
• a relevant government authority
• or the management of the premises where the item was found

Failure to do so can trigger severe financial penalties.

2. Fines Up to AED 200,000

Under the new regulations, the following actions are punishable:

• failing to report found property
• attempting to hide or keep items
• selling, disposing of, or profiting from abandoned assets
• obstructing official recovery procedures

The maximum fine is AED 200,000, reflecting the city’s zero-tolerance stance on property misuse.

 3. Clear Definitions: Lost vs. Abandoned

The law draws a legal distinction:

• Lost property → unintentionally misplaced
• Abandoned property → intentionally left behind or discarded

This determines how property is stored, advertised, reclaimed, or transferred to the state.

 4. Government Custody and Claiming Process

Authorities will:

• store property securely,
• publish notifications when required,
• monitor claim timelines,
• and legally dispose of or auction unclaimed items under official supervision.

Why This Law Matters for Dubai’s Future

Protecting Residents, Tourists & Businesses

The law ensures that Dubai remains one of the safest major cities globally, protecting millions of daily commuters, shoppers, travelers and investors.

Strengthening Global Confidence

As Dubai positions itself as a hub for:

• finance
• logistics
• digital commerce
• and tourism

clear rules on property rights build legal certainty and support international investor confidence.

Preserving Public Trust

The legislation directly targets:

• misuse of public trust
• fraudulent claims
• informal “finder’s markets”
• and unethical handling of found goods

It reinforces Dubai's reputation as a transparent, rules-based metropolis.