Sharjah Consultative Council Approves New Real Estate Leasing Law For 2024

The Sharjah Consultative Council (SCC) has taken a significant step towards enhancing the real estate sector in the Emirate of Sharjah by approving a draft law on real estate leasing for the year 2024. This approval came during the sixth meeting of the first regular session of the eleventh legislative term, under the chairmanship of Dr. Abdullah Belhaif Al Nuaimi, Chairman of SCC. The draft law, which underwent several amendments, aims to modernize and regulate the leasing landscape in Sharjah, reflecting the emirate's commitment to fostering a stable and attractive environment for investors and residents alike.

The council's discussion was informed by a comprehensive report from its Legislative and Legal Affairs, Appeals, Suggestions, and Complaints Committee. This session was notable for the presence of key figures including Counselor Dr. Mansour Mohammed bin Nassar, Head of the Legal Department of the Government of Sharjah; Issa bin Hanzal, Director of the Legal Department; and representatives from Sharjah Municipality such as Khalid Falah Al Suwaidi, Director of Customer Service; Abdullah Ibrahim Shuhail, Director of the Rental Regulation Department; and Muhammad Ali Al Ridwan, Head of the Judgments Implementation Department.

In his address, Counselor Dr. Mansour Mohammed bin Nassar lauded SCC's efforts in completing the legislative cycle for draft laws. He emphasized that the new draft law is crucial for enhancing Sharjah's appeal to investors and families by providing a robust legal framework that governs real estate transactions including buying, selling, and leasing. The need for this law arises from developments since the issuance of the previous law in 2007, highlighting a 17-year gap that necessitates updates to align with current needs and developments.

Khaled Falah Al Suwaidi underscored the draft law's significance in promoting Sharjah as a prime destination for tourism, investment, and living. He pointed out that the proposed legislation is designed to reflect societal needs and bring together all stakeholders under a unified legal framework that matches the evolving demands of Sharjah's real estate sector.

During the session, Hamad Abdel Wahab Al Qawadi presented an overview of the draft law's definitions, objectives, competencies, and legal articles. This sparked an engaging discussion among members who examined various provisions aimed at regulating landlord-tenant relationships.

The government representatives provided clarifications on legal interpretations and operational aspects of implementing the law in response to inquiries from council members. This dialogue underscored the collaborative effort to ensure that the legislation meets its intended objectives effectively.

With its approval at this plenary session, this draft law marks the second major legislative initiative undertaken by SCC at the start of its eleventh legislative term. Looking ahead, Ahmed Saeed Al-Jarwan, Secretary-General of the Council, announced that SCC's next meeting would focus on recommendations concerning the policy of Sharjah Tourism and Commerce Development Authority.

This legislative development represents a proactive approach by Sharjah to adapt its real estate sector to contemporary challenges and opportunities. By doing so, it aims to secure its position as an attractive hub for investment and living in the region.

With inputs from WAM