No volunteering in Dubai without official permission

Dubai - The law seeks to encourage a culture of social responsibility in society.

Entities conducting volunteering initiatives must first obtain authorisation from Dubai's Community Development Authority (CDA), according to a new law announced on Sunday. The law permits volunteers to form teams to participate collectively in volunteering programmes in Dubai on the condition that the team has registered itself in the CDA's database and obtained all required permits.

The volunteer teams are not allowed to conduct any fundraising activities, including advertising through any kind of media, unless the team obtains approval from the CDA.

Entities must also provide all required tools and safety equipment necessary for the volunteers to perform their activity. In addition, the entities must also provide insurance coverage against injuries, contagion and civil liabilities. All volunteers must sign the volunteering agreement issued by the CDA and this agreement must detail the relationship between the volunteer and the entity.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, issued the law, which regulates volunteering activities. It seeks to promote social responsibility in society, stimulate positive social engagement and encourage people to serve their communities.

The law authorises the CDA to establish, implement and oversee the plans and policies required to regulate volunteering in Dubai. The authority has been tasked with encouraging public and private sectors to sponsor volunteering programmes and conduct programmes to raise awareness about the important role of volunteering in community development.

The CDA is also responsible for coordinating volunteering programmes; establishing a database for volunteers in Dubai; issuing identification cards for them; issuing participation certificates for volunteers; helping entities attract volunteers for their initiatives; and nominating volunteers to participate in volunteering initiatives based on their skills and qualifications.

• Dubai