Gulf News, 8 July 2026: The Federal National Council has passed a comprehensive Cultural Heritage Law introducing severe penalties for offences against archaeological, historical and digital heritage.
During its 13th session of the third ordinary sitting of the 18th legislative term, chaired by Speaker Saqr Ghobash and attended by Minister of Culture Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qasimi, the council approved the legislation following detailed studies by its Education, Culture, Youth, Sports and Media Affairs Committee.
The law establishes a framework to safeguard, document, preserve and manage cultural heritage in all its forms, while promoting research, cultural diversity and exchange. It integrates heritage into sustainable development plans and strengthens coordination between the Ministry of Culture and relevant authorities.
Significantly, the law formally recognises digital heritage, covering digital materials of cultural, historical, scientific, social or economic value. It also introduces the concept of archaeological surveying, requiring scientific exploration and documentation of sites.
Provisions apply across the UAE, including free zones, with the Ministry of Culture responsible for developing policies, promoting awareness, supporting education and research, and nominating heritage elements for regional and international lists.
The law obliges individuals who discover archaeological remains or tangible heritage to notify authorities within 48 hours, with possible financial rewards for reporting. It establishes a three‑tier penalty system covering 24 criminal offences, with sanctions reaching up to 10 years’ imprisonment and fines of Dh10 million.
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