The Department of Community Development in Abu Dhabi, the regulatory body of the social sector in the emirate, organised a workshop for non-profit organizations in order to raise awareness about Federal Decree by Law No. 50 of 2023.
With the active participation of the Ministry of Community Development, and a number of non-profit organizations in attendance, the workshop focused on the regulation of non-profit organizations and the services provided to them.
The workshop, which was held at the Family Development Foundation, aimed to raise awareness among licensed non-profit organizations in Abu Dhabi about the regulating laws and services provided to them by the DCD. Non-profit organizations include associations of public benefit, civil society foundations, unions, social “Takaful” funds, and other entities specified by the executive regulations of Federal Decree by Law No. 50 of 2023.
The workshop highlighted DCD’s role in issuing licenses and regulating the operations of non-profit organizations, ensuring their compliance with regulations and delivery of services to the highest quality standards. This helps non-profit organizations achieve their desired goals and helps them deliver their social agenda, contributing to the growth of the social sector in the emirate and enhancing the quality of life for all categories and segments of society.
The Decree by Law has defined public benefit activities across social, cultural, scientific, educational, professional, and creative fields, as well as in the artistic, recreational, and environmental sectors. Other activities include providing humanitarian services and promoting charity or solidarity.
The Decree by Law prohibits any group or entity from engaging in public benefit activities without first completing the licensing procedures with the local authority, obtaining formal recognition from the Ministry of Community Development, and registering in the designated registry for this purpose.
Additionally, they must secure the necessary approvals and permits from the relevant authorities overseeing their activities in accordance with the applicable laws in the UAE. It also forbids individuals from allowing the use, leasing, or utilization of their facilities by a non-profit organization that is not duly registered and licensed in accordance with the provisions of this Decree by Law and its executive regulations. Furthermore, the decree prohibits the issuance of licenses to branches of foreign non-profit organizations.