Know Your Rights

Know your rights

Know Your Rights 

  1. UAE Gender Balance Council
    The U.A.E. Gender Balance Council is a federal entity, which was established to,
    among other things reduce the gender gap across all government sectors, and
    achieve gender balance in decision-making positions
  2. Rights of People with Special Needs
    Foster equality and non-discrimination towards individuals with special needs.
  3. Combating Discrimination and Hatred
    The purpose of this law is to encourage tolerance, co-existence and acceptance. Specifically, this law punishes discrimination of individuals based on religion, caste, doctrine, race, color or ethnic origin.
  4. Rights of Employees & Employers
    The new U.A.E. Labor Law enhances equality and non-discrimination and prohibits harassment and bullying. In particular, one of the objectives of the law, according to Article 2, is to provide protection for employees and employers and enable them to obtain their rights. Some of the most prominent examples of the rights enforced within the Labor Law are outlined below.
    -Equal wage for men and women, when performing the same work
    -Increased maternity leave of 60 days for women
    -Paternity leave of 5 days for men
    -Protection of juveniles. Limitation of working hours and implementing safe
    and secure working conditions.
    -Offers different models of work, like full time, part time, temporary, and
    flexible work. This increases individuals’ access and opportunity to work,
    under different conditions and circumstances.
  5. Rights of Children
    The purpose of this law is to ensure that all children are provided with appropriate
    living standards, access to health services, education, and equal opportunities,
    without any kind of discrimination.
  6. Human Rights Office
    The objective of the Human Rights Office is to enhance the understanding and application of human rights, in accordance with the rights enshrined in the UAE Constitution and laws, and in conformity to the principles established by international conventions.
  7. Dubai Foundation for Women & Children
    The Dubai Foundation for Women and Children, which was established in July 2007, is a non-profit shelter for women and children, who are victims of domestic violence, child abuse, and human trafficking.
  8. Rights Within Justice System
    This law provides for, among other things, the rights of those accused within the justice system. Some examples of these rights are outlined below.
    -Evidence and torture: No physical or moral harm shall be applied on the accused, and no person shall be subjected to torture or degrading treatment. In addition, no criminal penalty may be imposed on anyone without proving his conviction according to the law.
    -Translator Requirement: Judicial officers must retain the assistance of a translator when the accused, or the witness, or the expert, does not understand Arabic.
    -Right to Remain Silent & Knowledge of Crime: The judicial officer must, as soon as they arrest, detain, or bring in the accused, and prior to hearing their statements, inform them of the crime they are accused of, and of their right to remain silent
  9. Remote/Online Services and Systems
    The U.A.E. has also introduced access to numerous remote services. This allows individuals to have increased access and rights, depending on their circumstances. Some examples are outlined below.
    -Attending Court hearings online.
    -Notarizing a power of attorney online.
    -Applying to get married online.
    -Registering a will online.
  10. Rights Within Personal Status
    Under this law, men and women are equal in all rights and obligations. In addition, spouses can apply unilaterally for divorce, without having to justify the reason. And, parents can share custody of children under 18, equally.

Guide for FIFA fans visiting UAE and QATAR

FIFA world cup Qatar 2022

FIFA Visitors Things to Know Prior to Visiting UAE

    FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar is at our doorsteps! The U.A.E, as the neighboring country, anticipates many FIFA spectators to visit the U.A.E., as well. On that note, there are few important reminders for those who plan to visit the UAE. These tips, in particular, are things to keep in mind prior to traveling to the UAE.

  1. First, ensure that your passport has at least 6 months validity.
  2. Then, make sure you have the right tourist visa to visit the UAE. And that you know its duration. So that you do not inadvertently overstay and then face immigration penalties.
  3. Next, do not try to bring CBD oil, marijuana, or other prohibited substances, in whatever form. As, any form of recreational drugs are very much illegal in the UAE. The UAE government is vigilant and efficient at apprehending any such attempts. Being caught will certainly lead to all sorts of unpleasantries and unwelcomed lengthy stays in the country.
  4. On that topic also, be mindful, which prescription medicine you bring into the country. As there are many restricted prescription drugs in the UAE. Some of which require prior approval.
  5. Furthermore, any type of weapons, in whatever form, or even their parts are illegal in the UAE. This includes taser guns. As well as any types of explosives, including fireworks. Even pepper sprays could be illegal if they contain banned substance.
  6. Finally, adult toys are not allowed in the UAE either, as they are deemed to be against the country’s public morals.
  7. So, as you get excited about your upcoming visit to the UAE – do keep in mind these tips. And travel safe!

FIFA Visitors to the UAE – Dos and Don’ts

    FIFA World Cup in Qatar is also bringing many of its spectators to the UAE. The U.A.E. is a very tourist-friendly and exciting place to visit. To enjoy it to the fullest, remember that the UAE, has strong cultural and religious values which form the foundation of its legal system. So, while visiting the UAE, here are a few dos and don’ts to keep in mind.

  1. Be mindful of your dress code. Dress appropriately in public. And when visiting government buildings, dress conservatively
  2. Be mindful of your public behavior, especially as you watch football matches. Hooliganism, for example, is against the law. As is catcalling. Dancing in public is not appropriate. As is excessive public display of affection
  3. Don’t swear or insult, in any form. This includes hand gestures
  4. With regards to social media, be judicial about the nature and content of your postings. Especially when it involves other people or businesses, as you may inadvertently breach their privacy or damage their reputation.
  5. Also, don’t take photos of other people, without their consent. And do not photograph government buildings or airports.
  6. Don’t spread fakes news
  7. Avoid being drunk in public. And don’t drink and drive
  8. Remember, drugs are very much illegal in the UAE. So, stay away from them, in any form.
  9. Overall, be respectful of the UAE and its people. If you follow these rules, the UAE is almost sure to wove you!

Requirements for FIFA Fans Visiting Qatar

    Visiting Qatar for the FIFA World Cup, from the UAE is subject to a number of requirements which are applicable from November 1 to December 23, 2022.

  1. First and foremost, you must have a match ticket.
  2. Second, for those who are visiting Qatar for more than 24 hours, proof of accommodation is required
  3. Third, you must download the Hayya App – which becomes your mandatory interface for the entire visit. Without the Hayya App, you cannot enter the country or the stadium. It is also used to validate your accommodation in Qatar, including if you are staying with family or friends. Additionally, the App is your access to public transport in the country.
  4. With regards to COVID, all previous restrictions and requirements have been lifted. And there is no more requirement of PCR test or proof of vaccination.
  5. So, cheer on the action! And celebrate every goal at Qatar 2022!

Guide for FIFA Fans Visiting Qatar from the UAE

    The U.A.E. FIFA fans, residents and citizens alike, who plan to visit Qatar, must keep in mind a few guidelines Which apply between November 1 to December 23, 2022.

  1. First, U.A.E. residents are eligible for a single-entry visa on arrival, valid for 1 month. As long as their UAE residence permit is valid for at least 6 months; and, their profession appears on the list.
  2. Second, those UAE residents who wish to travel to Qatar by land, have 3 options. 1) To travel by bus; 2) leave the car at the border, at the designated car park, with the first 24 hours being free, and continue on by free shuttle bus; OR 3), travel by car, with a special vehicle entry permit, that costs approximately AED 5,000.
  3. Third, to enter Qatar during this time, visitors must also have: 1) match ticket and 2) accommodation – all registered on the mandatory Hayya App.

Happy Diwali – Fireworks in the UAE

Fireworks in the UAE

    1. The use of fireworks, in the U.A.E., is strictly regulated.
    2. This is because they are considered explosives.
    3. And, therefore, subject to, among other things, the U.A.E.’s law on Weapons, Ammunition and Explosives, which is Federal Decree Law No. 17 of 2019.
    4. As per this law, a proper license is required to use fireworks or other explosives.
    5. This means, that, legally speaking, only those companies who are properly licensed can conduct fireworks.
    6. Those licenses are, generally, issued by the U.A.E. Ministry of Interior.
    7. Therefore, anyone who uses fireworks or explosives without proper approvals can be subject to fines and jail sentence.

Halloween 2022: Sorcery and Cosplay in the UAE

Halloween 2022: Sorcery and Cosplay in the UAE
  1. Happy Halloween 2022!
  2. Generally, dressing up as a character from a film, book, or video game – is NOT illegal.
  3. But depends on the specific costume – which should not be offensive or against public morals.
  4. Furthermore, the timing of dressing up in costumes in public is relevant too.
  5. So, dressing up in costumes during Halloween time is acceptable and, even celebrated, in the UAE.
  6. This is in addition to the U.A.E. Constitution, which also provides that the practice of holding passports is against the country’s laws.
  7. But, outside of a specific occasion, visiting public places dressed up in costumes, may not be deemed culturally appropriate.
  8. Also, pretending to be a witch on Halloween is very much different from exercising witchcraft.
  9. Which is otherwise referred to as sorcery.
  10. This is because, sorcery in the UAE is expressly illegal and punishable by 1) a jail sentence and 2) a fine not less than AED 50,000.
  11. This is as per the UAE Crimes and Punishment Law No. 31 of 2021 and, in particular, Articles 366 and 367.

Advertising Laws in UAE

Legal Framework of Advertising in UAE.Advertising laws in the UAE are many.  There are federal laws and there are those which apply in individual Emirates.

  1. Federal Law No. 15 of 1980 on Publications and Publishing
  2. Fujairah Law No. 1 of 1994 concerning Promotional Campaigns for Commercial Advertising Purposes in the Emirate of Fujairah
  3. Dubai Local Order No. 11/2003, on Public Health and Safety of the Community in the Emirates of Dubai
  4. Cabinet Decision No. 7 of 2007 on the Health Advertisements Regulations
  5. Ras Al Khaimah Law No. 11 of 2008 on the Control of Advertising
  6. Administrative Decision No. 35 of 2012 on the Standards of Advertisements Content in the Media
  7. Ras Al Khaimah Law No. 5 of 2016 concerning Promotional Campaigns and Special Offers for Commercial Advertising Purposes
  8. Sharjah Executive Council Decision No. 30 of 2019 on the Regulation of Outdoor Advertising in the Emirate of Sharjah
  9. Abu Dhabi Decision No. 37 of 2019 on the Regulation of Health Information and Advertising
  10. UAE Media Content Standards Decision No. 20 of 2019,
  11. Abu Dhabi Decision No. 144 of 2020 on the Regulation of Granting Advertisements and Promotions Permits
  12. Dubai Decree No. 6 of 2020 on the Regulation of Advertising in the Emirate of Dubai
  13. Cybercrime Law No. 34 of 2021
  14. UAE Crime and Punishment Law

Advertising Standards (2020)– to consolidate various principles governing content in relation to advertisement in the UAE, reinforcing a number of fundamental edicts.

  1. religious, cultural and social values in the UAE;
  2. strengthen the freedom of expression of the media;
  3. establish the advertisement sector as one which contributes to the advancement of economic development in the UAE; and
  4. ensure that all advertisement content is:
    1. impartial;
    2. truthful;
    3. respects the privacy of individuals; and 
    4. protects society from harmful influences.
  5. Advertisement Standards set out principles to all: 1) digital and 2) traditional advertisement, broadcast or publishes, through any media corporation and outlet.  Could also be applied more broadly, to include advertisement issued by shops.  

Summary of main Advertising Standards:

  1. Respect for religion and political institutions
  2. Prohibited products/services: explicitly prohibit advertising alcoholic beverages, tobacco, smoking and all banned products or services, including banned narcotics.
  3. Prohibited content:
    1. words and pictures that breach public morals;
    2. prejudice children, women or any other members of society;
    3. provocation of violence, hatred and sectarianism via advertising content.
  4. Privacy:
  5. Misleading news and rumors
  6. Consumer Protection
  7. Health regulations: medicines or pharmaceutical products

Arabic Language. Now required to be in standard Arabic.

Additional Requirements. 

  1. Must be clear and not contain incorrect information. 
  2. No confusion.  Or misleading
  3. No unlawful use of trademarks in advertisements. 
  4. Broadcast or publication of specialized advertisements, i.e. advertisements about medicines or pharmaceutical products, food products and promotions require special permission of the relevant authority prior to issuance. Similarly, advertisements relating to properties, universities and kindergartens must be approved by the relevant authority.

Advertising Media –  traditional (broadcast and publications) and digital

  1. Physical advertising, e.g. billboards
  2. Digital/online advertising
  3. Media – newspapers, magazines, periodicals, websites, radio, television and movie theaters 
  4. Social media

Specific Industries. Certain industries are subject to specific and more stringent regulations, in the interest of public safety.

  1. Health/medicine
  2. Education
  3. Food
  4. Medicine
  5. Food
  6. Universities
  7. Real estate
  8. Special offers
  9. Promotional campaigns; and
  10. drugs

Special categories

  1. Alcohol
  2. Promotional campaigns

Permits – for advertising within individual Emirates, requires permits

Restricted areas, requiring special permits

  1. Houses of worships, tombs,
  2. Traffic signs and boards
  3. Government headquarters
  4. Trees
  5. Military areas
  6. Facades of residential buildings
  7. Parties subject to advertising rules:
  8. Businesses and sellers of product and services (producer)
  9. Advertising/marketing companies
  10. Media

Governing Authorities

  1. Media Regulatory Office (MRO) at the Ministry of Culture and Youth (previously National Media Council) – issuing licenses for media activities, such as “representative office for a print,” “radio or TV broadcasting,” and other “media license for services of a commercial nature.” 
  2. FNC
  3. RTA
  4. DED
  5. Dubai Civil Aviation Authority
  6. Dubai Municipality
  7. Maritime City Authority