Dubai has taken a significant step to protect the rights of property owners with the introduction of Law No. (17) of 2025, regulating the handling of lost and abandoned property. This new legislation clarifies the obligations of finders, establishes clear processes for owners to reclaim their property, and introduces penalties for non-compliance reinforcing Dubai’s commitment to legal transparency and accountability.
Clear Definitions for Lost and Abandoned Property
The law differentiates between lost property items unintentionally misplaced by their lawful owner and abandoned property, which is intentionally left behind. It explicitly excludes animals from its scope. By providing these clear definitions, the legislation reduces ambiguity in legal disputes and ensures the rights of owners are protected.
Obligations for Finders
Under the new framework, anyone who finds lost property in Dubai must:
- Register the item with Dubai Police within 24 hours.
- Hand over the property within 48 hours.
- Refrain from using, selling, or claiming ownership of the item without legal authorization.
Failure to comply with these rules can result in fines ranging from AED 500 to AED 200,000, ensuring accountability for those handling lost property.
Owners’ Rights to Reclaim Property
Law 17/2025 strengthens owners’ rights in several ways:
- Legitimate owners can reclaim their lost property before it is disposed of or sold.
- If property is sold without owner consent, they are entitled to compensation equivalent to the sale value, enforceable for up to three years.
- In case of disputes, courts determine the rightful ownership, providing legal clarity.
This ensures that Dubai property owners have a structured and enforceable method to recover their lost possessions.
Incentives for Genuine Finders
The law also encourages public compliance by introducing rewards for genuine finders. Under certain conditions, finders may receive a financial reward of up to 10% of the item’s value (maximum AED 50,000), creating a fair system that motivates responsible behavior.
Why This Law Matters for Businesses
For businesses operating in Dubai, this legislation reduces risks associated with lost assets and provides legal certainty in property disputes. Companies managing inventory, valuables, or customer deposits can now rely on a formalized framework to protect their interests and enforce accountability in case of misplaced or abandoned items.
What This Means for Owners and Companies
Dubai Law No. (17) of 2025 is more than a procedural update, it represents a modern, accountable, and transparent approach to property rights. By protecting owners and regulating finders, it strengthens the legal framework for residents and businesses alike, positioning Dubai as a jurisdiction that prioritizes fairness, accountability, and legal clarity.
