Abu Dhabi, UAE – The UAE government has issued a federal decree-law comprehensively regulating activities related to the cannabis plant, thus establishing a clear legal framework for approvals, licensing and control;
This ensures the legitimate and controlled use of this sector in accordance
with strict regulations, whether in medical or industrial activities.
Licensing and Recordkeeping Controls
Regarding the implementation mechanism, the decree-law stipulates that licensees are obligated to
Obtaining all necessary approvals from the relevant authorities before commencing any activity.
Furthermore, the law emphasizes the need to maintain regular records.
It details the type and scale of activities and their implementation dates for a period of no less than five years.
This allows regulatory authorities to monitor compliance with high accuracy.
National Tracking and Data System
On the other hand, the decree regulates the establishment of a national system
for tracking seeds, seedlings, and industrial hemp products.
This is provided that the Cabinet issues a decision specifying the entity responsible
for its establishment and the regulations for its management.
Simultaneously, the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment is tasked
with creating a unified electronic register containing the data of licensees,
This contributes to providing an integrated database under
the supervision of the authorized federal and local authorities.
Field monitoring and security supervision
As for oversight, the decree defines the regulatory frameworks
for supervising licensees by the licensing authority.
It also authorizes the National Drug Control Agency and police authorities,
Each within his area of responsibility, shall carry out inspections of cultivated lands and seedlings;
This is for the purpose of verifying full compliance with the provisions
of the law and the decisions implementing it.
Administrative penalties and deterrent sanctions
In conclusion, the decree-law includes provisions for administrative penalties
and grievance mechanisms, along with the stipulation of strict penalties.
The penalties include imprisonment for a period of no less than three months
and a fine of no less than 100,000 dirhams for violators.
In addition, penalties are imposed in case of failure to comply with periodic inspections.
Or transportation restrictions or non-cooperation with investigating authorities,
without prejudice to any more severe penalty stipulated by another law.
