The United Arab Emirates has enacted a resolution detailing administrative sanctions for non-Muslim places of worship that breach Federal Law No. 9 of 2023, according to Khaleej Times. The framework imposes escalating monetary penalties and potential activity suspensions for institutions that fail to comply with national regulations. The measures cover a wide range of operational failures, from licensing lapses to unauthorized financial flows. The resolution becomes effective the day after its publication in the Official Gazette.
Penalties are structured to increase with repeated offenses, starting with warnings and fines as low as Dh5,000. For severe breaches, such as engaging with foreign religious organizations or establishing ties with foreign diplomatic institutions, fines can reach Dh750,000 by the third violation. Other significant financial penalties include Dh500,000 for receiving donations from outside the UAE and Dh400,000 for conducting religious rituals outside the approved premises. Temporary suspension of activities for up to three months is a possible consequence for persistent non-compliance across various categories.
The regulations mandate strict financial and administrative controls. Non-Muslim places of worship are required to maintain local bank accounts, deposit all funds before spending, and submit annual budgets and financial statements within three months of their financial year-end. Violations such as spending cash before depositing it or failing to report bank account details within ten days carry specific fines. The law also prohibits using premises for unauthorized purposes or amending constitutions without competent authority approval. Operating without an appointed supervisor or failing to hold annual meetings triggers additional warnings and monetary penalties.
Procedural safeguards are included in the resolution. Authorities must notify a place of worship of a violation and allow fifteen days for a response. Failure to respond may be treated as evidence of the breach. Once a penalty is determined, the institution has fifteen days to file a grievance with the competent authority. Authorities must decide on grievances within thirty working days, potentially upholding, reducing, or canceling the penalty. Fines must be paid within thirty days of final approval. The Cabinet retains the power to amend the list of violations and penalties, ensuring the framework can adapt to future regulatory needs.