The UAE is a federation consisting of 7 Emirates. Therefore, there are two legislation levels in the country: the federal legislation, which is enacted throughout the country; and the local legislation that is approved by the authorities of each Emirate. In addition, it should be noted that separate legal acts are issued within the UAE free zones.
The legislative system of the UAE consists of the Constitution, federal laws, federal decrees by law (federal decree-laws), federal decrees, resolutions of the President of the UAE, resolutions of the Prime Minister, Cabinet resolutions, and federal entities’ legislative acts.
The UAE Constitution of 1971 is a national document that defines the political system in the country, and sets the legislative, executive, and judicial competencies governing the Union and the members Emirates. It is the set of legal rules that govern the operation of the UAE and define its form, authorities, and clarifies the relations between the bodies. The constitution also defines the rights, freedoms, and public responsibilities of the citizens.
Laws are enac...