UAE sets fines of up to Dh750,000 for violations at non-Muslim places of worship
New Cabinet rules list 24 types of violations for non-Muslim houses of worship, with penalties that include large fines and temporary suspension of activities.
The UAE has introduced a Cabinet Resolution covering administrative violations under the Federal Law on the Regulation of Houses of Worship for Non-Muslims and its Executive Regulation. The rules took effect in mid-October 2026 and identify 24 categories of violations.
Penalties start with warnings and fines of Dh5,000 for some repeat offences. Certain violations can attract fines of up to Dh750,000 after a third breach. Temporary suspension of activities for up to three months, extendable for similar periods, generally applies after a fourth violation.
Operating without a renewed licence or an appointed supervisor leads to warnings followed by escalating fines. Places of worship must also rectify violations within set periods, such as 60 days for licence issues and 30 days for supervisor issues. Collecting donations or funds from abroad without approval carries fines from Dh100,000 to Dh500,000, while sending money outside the UAE without prior approval carries fines from Dh50,000 upwards.