Federal Decree-Law No. (35) of 2024 Concerning the Reorganization of the Civil Defence Authority

► The Government of the United Arab Emirates has issued Federal Decree-Law No. (35) of 2024 concerning the reorganization of the Civil Defence Authority, which is responsible for protecting lives from hazards and disasters, whether natural or man-made. The Decree-Law has organized the following matters:

• A Civil Defense Authority shall be established within the National Emergency, Crisis, and Disaster Management Authority, and the National Emergency, Crisis, and Disaster Management Authority shall replace the Civil Defense Authority within the Ministry of Interior, which was established pursuant to Federal Law No. (23) of 2006.

• The Civil Defense Authority is responsible for the following:

1. Formulating policies, strategies, and legislation related to civil defense matters.

2.   Developing and studying risk and disaster management plans.

3. Preparing preventive programs for potential risks.

4. Establishing controls and requirements for securing buildings and facilities.

5. Organizing risk management rooms and centers.

6. Implementing a public warning system for potential risks.

7. Establishing and supervising shelters.

8. Preparing and coordinating the necessary services to address potential risks and coordinating with relevant authorities.

9. Forming necessary relief teams.

10. Developing training programs and simulation exercises for civil defense personnel and volunteers.

11. Raising awareness among the population.

• The Civil Defense Authority has the right to make use of properties and facilities in exchange for fair compensation in the event of any damage resulting from civil defense operations or exercises. In the event that damage occurs, the affected party has the right to claim compensation within 60 days from the date the damage occurred.

• The Authority has the right to coordinate with any ministry or federal entity by a decision of the Cabinet.

• In cases of emergencies and disasters, the Authority may secure its needs without resorting to the bidding system, and equipment and devices imported for its use shall be exempt from federal customs duties.

• The human resources, financial, contractual, accounting, and procurement regulations applicable within the Authority shall also apply to the Civil Defense Authority.

• Any person who violates the provisions of this Decree-Law or causes the disruption or cessation of the equipment and apparatus being utilized by the Civil Defense shall be punishable by imprisonment for a period not exceeding six months, or by a fine. In cases of disasters, the penalty shall be imprisonment for no less than two months, and a fine ranging from no less than 20,000 AED to no more than 250,000 AED.

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