Get a license for non-profit organization in Dubai, you need a license from the Community Development Authority (CDA). Are you planning to start a charity or an artist group in Dubai? Here’s a simple guide on how to get started.
Civil Society Organization in Dubai
A civil society organization in Dubai is a non-profit organization includes any group working in fields like social work, healthcare, education, culture, science, arts, and other areas that aim to benefit the public. This is in accordance with Law No. (12) of 2017.
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How to Apply License for Non-Profit Organization in Dubai?
To start a civil society organization, you need to send an application to CDA via email at: civil.facilities@cda.gov.ae.
Here is a breakdown of what you need to do:
- Required Documents for Initial Application
- Completed Application Form: Available on the CDA website.
- Passport Copies: Valid passport copies for all members. UAE citizens must include their file number, while non-citizens must provide a residence visa.
- National ID Copies: Both sides of the valid national identity cards for all members.
- Declaration and Undertaking Form: This needs to be filled out and submitted.
- Financial Plan: A detailed financial plan for the next two years.
- List of Official Sponsors: If applicable, provide a list of official sponsors.
- Additional Documents Needed After Initial Approval
- Constitution and Board Resolution: Must be attested by Dubai courts and provided in both Arabic and English.
- No-Objection Letter: Attested by a notary public.
- Premises Documents: Documents related to the premises of the organization, like lease agreements, land grants, and no-objection certificates from the Dubai Land Department.
Once the initial approval is granted, an inspection of the premises will be conducted by the CDA. If everything is approved, you will need to provide proof of an account with a domestic national bank. The final license will then be issued via email.
License Fees For Non-Profit Organization in Dubai
The annual fee for the final license is AED 2020.
Guidelines for Civil Society Organization in Dubai
- Founding Members Requirements:
- Must have at least ten founding members; at least two must be UAE nationals. This number can be adjusted by the Director General.
- Founding members must be 21 years or older.
- GCC nationals must be UAE residents, and non-UAE nationals must have lived in the UAE for at least three years and have a valid residence visa.
- All founders must have a clean legal record.
- License Validity: The license is valid for one year and can be renewed.
- Charter Requirements: The organization must have a charter that includes:
- The organization’s name (which must be unique and approved by CDA), proposed premises, and geographic scope.
- The objectives, activities, and categories of the association.
- Names, nationalities, and details of founding members.
- Membership types, rules, and member rights and duties.
- Regulations for General Assembly meetings, decision-making processes, and Board of Directors’ roles.
- Financial resources, utilization plans, and expenditure control methods.
- Conditions for voluntary dissolution and liquidation.
The organization cannot be a branch of an organization already licensed outside the UAE.
Submitting an application does not guarantee approval. The CDA can reject applications for public interest or if they do not meet the conditions in Law No. (12) of 2017.
People May Ask
How do I set up a non-profit organization in Dubai?
To set up a non-profit organization in Dubai, you need to apply for a license from the Community Development Authority (CDA). The process involves submitting required documents, such as a financial plan, proof of premises, and an association charter, and meeting criteria like having at least 10 founding members.
Are there NGOs in Dubai?
Yes, there are NGOs in Dubai. These organizations operate in areas like education, healthcare, humanitarian aid, and community services. However, they must be licensed by the CDA to operate legally.
What is the best charity in the UAE?
Some of the well-known and reputable charities in the UAE include the Emirates Red Crescent, Dubai Cares, and Dar Al Ber Society. The “best” charity can vary depending on your cause and interests.
What is NPO UAE?
NPO stands for Non-Profit Organization in the UAE. These are organizations that operate for social, charitable, or public benefit purposes rather than for profit. They are regulated by the CDA in Dubai and other relevant authorities in other Emirates.
What is the charity visa in UAE?
The charity visa in the UAE allows individuals to work or volunteer for registered charitable organizations in the country. It is granted by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) or the CDA.
How can I start a business in Dubai for free?
Starting a business in Dubai for free is challenging, but some free zones offer low-cost setups or fee waivers during promotions. Additionally, programs like Dubai SME provide support to small businesses and entrepreneurs.
Can you raise money for charity in Dubai?
Yes, you can raise money for charity in Dubai, but it requires approval from the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD). Unauthorized fundraising is illegal.
How can I get charity help in UAE?
To get charity help in the UAE, you can approach licensed organizations like the Emirates Red Crescent, Zakat Fund, or local charitable societies. These organizations provide various forms of assistance, including financial aid, medical support, and education.
What is the richest NGO in the world?
The richest NGO in the world is generally considered to be the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, with an endowment of over $50 billion.
What is the difference between NGO and NPO?
An NGO (Non-Governmental Organization) is a type of non-profit organization that operates independently from the government, often focusing on humanitarian and advocacy efforts. An NPO (Non-Profit Organization) is a broader term for any organization that does not distribute its profits to owners or shareholders but reinvests them in its mission. All NGOs are NPOs, but not all NPOs are NGOs.
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Conclusion
Starting a civil society organization or Non-Profit organization in Dubai requires careful planning and meeting specific criteria set by the CDA. Following the above steps can help you navigate the process smoothly and increase your chances of approval.
