In a significant move toward enhancing legal frameworks in Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, has issued Law No. (17) of 2025 concerning the management of found items and abandoned property in the emirate. This regulation outlines clear protocols and responsibilities for individuals and authorities regarding lost and abandoned property, ensuring a structured approach to such matters while promoting social responsibility among the community.
Definition of Found Items and Abandoned Property
The newly established law clearly defines “found items” as objects of value that are legally permissible to possess, which have been lost by their owners without the intention of relinquishing them, and are discovered within the emirate. Notably excluded from this definition are stray animals. Similarly, “abandoned property” refers to items that the owner or legal possessor has explicitly or implicitly decided to forsake, also excluding stray animals.
Responsibilities of Dubai Police
The law assigns key responsibilities to the Dubai Police, which include accepting reports of lost items, safeguarding found property, and maintaining proper records. This includes documenting descriptions of the items, the time and place of their discovery, and the details of the finder. Moreover, Dubai Police is tasked with creating an electronic system for registering found items and abandoned property, as well as publicizing the existence of such items in ways deemed appropriate. The police are also responsible for estimating the costs associated with the storage and public announcement of these items.
Obligations of Finders
According to the law, anyone who finds an item must report it through the dedicated electronic program established by the Dubai Police within 24 hours of discovery and must submit the item within 48 hours. The finder is prohibited from retaining the item with the intent to claim ownership, as doing so could result in criminal liability. The law emphasizes the necessity of cooperation with the police to ensure compliance and proper application of regulations.
Claiming Found Items
Owners of found items have the right to reclaim their possessions before authorities dispose of them, including the ability to claim financial compensation if the items are sold by Dubai Police. If multiple individuals claim ownership of a found item, the matter will be settled by the competent court that issues a final ruling on ownership. Importantly, claims for found items must be made within three years from the date of their announcement, ensuring a timely resolution to such disputes.
Acknowledging Honesty and Cooperation
The law also provides for the recognition of finders, allowing for the provision of certificates of appreciation or financial rewards—up to 10% of the item’s value, capped at AED 50,000. This reward is allocated from the proceeds after the item is disposed of, regardless of whether the original owner claims it. In cases where an item remains unclaimed for one year, the finder may apply for ownership under certain guidelines set by the Dubai Police.
Enforcement and Compliance
Dubai Police has been empowered to issue written warnings to those who violate the stipulations of this law. Fines ranging from AED 500 to AED 100,000 are imposed for various infractions. In cases of repeated offenses, penalties may increase significantly, making compliance essential for all parties involved.
This law replaces Law No. (5) of 2015 and nullifies any conflicting regulations, with provisions remaining in place until new implementing regulations are established. The law will be effective upon its publication in the official gazette, marking a pivotal step for legal governance in the emirate.