UAE approves new law: Damaging heritage sites could cost up to Rs 26 crore fine, jail

The UAE’s Federal National Council (FNC) has passed a draft federal law aimed at strengthening the protection of the nation’s cultural heritage, imposing strict penalties that include fines of up to Dh10 million and prison sentences for offences such as damage, theft, and smuggling of heritage assets.The measure was approved during the council’s 13th session of its third ordinary term in Abu Dhabi, in the presence of Minister of Culture Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi. The legislation is designed to ensure the preservation, documentation and promotion of the country’s heritage while safeguarding it for future generations.The law applies nationwide, including in free zones, and covers a wide range of heritage categories, including tangible, intangible, natural and digital forms. It also promotes the integration of heritage into tourism initiatives and sustainable development strategies.Severe penalties are outlined for major violations. Individuals who intentionally damage, demolish, deface, or remove heritage sites or antiquities, carry out construction without permits in protected areas, or smuggle heritage items could face temporary imprisonment and fines ranging from Dh500,000 to Dh10 million. Penalties may be increased if the offender is the owner of the heritage property.Those involved in illegal excavation, forgery of artefacts, submitting false documentation for transporting heritage items, misusing heritage sites as dumping grounds, or deliberately disrespecting cultural heritage may face prison terms of up to 10 years and fines between Dh300,000 and Dh5 million.Less severe violations, such as relocating heritage items without approval, failing to register privately owned heritage objects, neglecting their upkeep, placing advertisements on protected sites or organising heritage-related activities without permission, may result in prison sentences of up to three years and fines ranging from Dh100,000 to Dh5 million, or either penalty.The legislation also obliges anyone who discovers an archaeological object or material heritage to avoid disturbing it and report the find within 48 hours to the Ministry of Culture, relevant authorities or the nearest police station. Authorities may offer rewards for timely reporting.New definitions have been introduced under the law, including “digital heritage,” which refers to culturally or historically valuable digital materials, and “archaeological survey,” which involves the exploration and documentation of heritage sites across land, underground areas and territorial waters.

The law distinguishes between historical architectural heritage, defined as structures built between 1700 and 1960, and modern architectural heritage, which includes culturally significant buildings constructed after 1960, such as schools, hospitals, museums and industrial facilities. It also extends protection to underwater heritage, including shipwrecks, submerged aircraft and archaeological remains.Courts will have the authority to confiscate heritage items and any tools used in committing offences, while ensuring the rights of third parties acting in good faith are preserved.Officials say the legislation will enhance coordination between the Ministry of Culture and other entities, support research and awareness initiatives, strengthen conservation efforts and facilitate the nomination of UAE heritage sites to regional and international registers.