Legal forms of philanthropic organizations included in the law: Public-welfare associations (institutions of public benefit), charitable societies, nonprofit organizations, and nonprofit incorporated organizations.
Five main social issues addressed by these organizations: Higher education, basic needs, international causes, food, religion, environment. (The lines are very blurred here. Only a few private foundations address these issues; there are very few charities because of the difficulties of registration.)
Average time established by law to register a philanthropic organization: 31-60 days
Average cost for registering a philanthropic organization: US$0
Government levels primarily regulating the incorporation of philanthropic organizations: Federal, state (Emirates)
Philanthropic organizations need to register at the federal or state level according to their levels of operation. POs operating at the federal level register with the Ministry of Social Affairs, while POs operating in the Emirate of Dubai need approval from local authorities such as the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department. Other authorities in Dubai include the International Humanitarian City (for organizations operating in the IHCs).
View the full United Arab Emirates country report