EAD Issues Resolution To Regulate Approval And Registration Of Environmental Consultancy Offices In Abu Dhabi

The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) has introduced Resolution No. (4) of 2025, focusing on the approval and registration of environmental consultancy offices (ECOs) in Abu Dhabi. This resolution aims to regulate ECOs' operations, ensuring they provide top-notch environmental consulting services and studies.

All ECOs, whether existing or newly licensed, must comply with this resolution. It applies to offices solely focused on environmental consulting or those incorporating it into broader activities. The agency collaborates with relevant emirate entities to implement these provisions effectively.

The resolution outlines specific criteria for ECO approval and classification. Directors must possess relevant academic qualifications and practical experience matching their firm's scope. Offices should have a skilled technical team, modern tools, and a licensed physical headquarters within the emirate.

To ensure quality and efficiency in environmental studies, ECOs must submit detailed approval applications. These include staff qualifications, professional experience, records of completed projects, and samples of past studies.

EAD has established educational programmes for ECOs about approval requirements, registration processes, and classification standards. These programmes also cover standard operating procedures and technical guidelines necessary for delivering high-quality environmental consulting services.

The resolution mandates that establishments engage only with EAD-approved ECOs for consultancy services. This ensures adherence to modern scientific procedures and standards while maintaining confidentiality and impartiality in study implementation.

Monitoring Performance

EAD is tasked with evaluating ECO performance through an annual review process. This involves assessing the quality of submitted studies to decide on potential upgrades or downgrades in classification.

The agency has defined circumstances under which it may suspend or revoke an office's approval. Procedures are also in place for modifying an office's classification or practice areas upon request from consulting firms.

Ensuring Compliance

ECOs must obtain EAD approval before commencing activities, avoid conflicts of interest, and inform EAD of any changes. The agency coordinates with emirate entities to ensure compliance with the resolution's provisions.

This comprehensive approach aims to enhance the quality of environmental consultancy services across Abu Dhabi by regulating ECO operations effectively.

With inputs from WAM