Key Aspects of the Resolution

The resolution is a detailed framework that governs the dissolution and reorganization of Wataney UAE, ensuring that all assets, employees, and responsibilities are efficiently reallocated within Dubai’s government structure. This blog will break down the resolution’s key components, the powers granted to the Steering Committee, and its role in the transformation process.

1. Creation of the Steering Committee

According to Article (2) of the resolution, the Steering Committee is officially formed under the leadership of the Secretary-General of the Executive Council, with the following members:

Director-General of the Department of Finance

Director-General of the Dubai Government Human Resources Department

Secretary-General of the High Committee for Legislation

A representative from Wataney UAE was chosen by the chairman of its board of directors.

This committee is not a permanent body but a transitional one, formed to facilitate the integration of the foundation’s functions into existing governmental departments. This temporary structure emphasizes the urgency of implementing the dissolution law and ensuring the continuity of services provided by the foundation during the transition period.

2. Powers and Responsibilities of the Steering Committee

The Steering Committee is granted a broad set of responsibilities aimed at managing the dissolution process effectively. As outlined in Article (3), the committee has the authority to:

Approve the comprehensive plan for the project, including specific milestones and timelines for each phase of the dissolution and transition process.

Oversee the transfer of assets, properties, and responsibilities from Wataney UAE to the designated governmental entities.

Supervise the reallocation of organizational units and staff from the foundation to appropriate government departments, ensuring a smooth transition for employees and their financial allocations.

Issue executive instructions necessary for the project’s completion and report on progress regularly to the Chairman of the Executive Council.

These responsibilities underscore the committee’s role as a central authority in overseeing the complex process of dismantling and redistributing the foundation’s operations.

3. Governance and Operational Framework

The Steering Committee’s operations will be governed by the principles set forth in Dubai’s broader governance framework, including Decree No. (1) of 2023 regarding the governance of councils and committees. According to Article (4), the committee is expected to adhere to strict governance standards, including maintaining transparency, accountability, and efficiency in its operations. This includes holding regular meetings, making decisions in a structured manner, and ensuring that all stakeholders are informed of the progress.

4. Role of the General Secretariat

The General Secretariat plays a pivotal role in supporting the Steering Committee, as outlined in Article (5). It is tasked with providing administrative and technical support, tracking the progress of the project, managing the agenda for Steering Committee meetings, and reviewing all proposals and decisions made by the committee. Additionally, the Secretariat is responsible for managing the subcommittees and working groups that will handle specific tasks related to the project, ensuring the smooth flow of operations.

5. Collaboration Across Government Entities

As per Article (6), the success of this project hinges on the full cooperation of all relevant government departments. The Steering Committee is empowered to request data, documents, and research from various government entities to assist in the dissolution and transition process. This collaborative approach ensures that no aspect of the dissolution is overlooked and that resources are efficiently allocated.

6. Reporting and Financial Allocations

Article (7) outlines that the Steering Committee is required to submit a final report to the Chairman of the Executive Council within three months of the law’s implementation. This report will detail the achievements of the committee, any challenges encountered during the process, and proposed solutions. Furthermore, the financial resources necessary for the execution of the project will be allocated by the Department of Finance, as stipulated in Article (8). The resolution stresses the need for adequate funding to ensure the timely and successful completion of the project.

7. Executive Decisions and Legal Compliance

Finally, Article (9) clarifies that the Steering Committee Chairman has the authority to issue all necessary executive decisions to implement the resolution. Additionally, the resolution is legally binding and will come into force upon its publication in the official gazette, as specified in Article (10).

Implications and Future Outlook

The establishment of the Steering Committee under Resolution No. (85) of 2024 marks a significant step in the restructuring of public institutions in Dubai. With the dissolution of Wataney UAE, the government is strategically realigning resources and responsibilities to better serve the public interest. The Steering Committee’s role is crucial in ensuring that this transition is handled with efficiency, transparency, and minimal disruption to services.

As Dubai continues to evolve and refine its governance framework, this resolution is a clear example of how the emirate is adapting its institutional structures to align with changing political and economic priorities. It also underscores the government’s commitment to maintaining a high level of public sector governance, with an emphasis on accountability, coordination, and effective management of resources.

In conclusion

The Executive Council Resolution No. (85) of 2024 provides a well-structured and actionable plan for the dissolution of Wataney UAE, with the formation of a temporary Steering Committee designed to guide the transition. As the committee begins its work, all eyes will be on its ability to meet the set objectives and ensure that Dubai’s public sector continues to operate smoothly during this period of transformation.