Are you planning to establish a charitable organization or an artist's association? Non-profit civil society organizations in Dubai are required to obtain a license from the Community Development Authority (CDA). These organizations engage in social, healthcare, educational, cultural, scientific, occupational, creative, artistic, and humanitarian activities, among others, aiming to benefit the public as defined by a resolution from the Director General under Law No. (12) of 2017.
To initiate the licensing process, submit your application to civil.facilities@cda.gov.ae. The necessary documents for setting up a civil society organization include: a completed license application form, electronic copies of valid passports or national identity cards for all members, a declaration and undertaking form, a financial plan for the next two years, and a list of official sponsors if applicable. Post-initial approval, additional documents such as an attested constitution, a no-objection letter, and premises documents must be provided.
Upon initial approval, an inspection of the organization's premises will be conducted. If approved, submit an electronic copy of a domestic national bank account. The final license, with annual fees of Dh2020, will be issued via email. Eligibility criteria for founding members include a minimum of ten founders, with at least two being UAE nationals, and all must be at least 21 years old. GCC nationals must be UAE residents, while other non-UAE nationals must have resided in the country for at least three years.
The license is valid for one year and renewable. The association must submit a charter detailing its name, objectives, activities, and membership details. The CDA may reject applications that do not meet the conditions of Law No. (12) of 2017 or are deemed not in the public interest.
