His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who serves as the First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Finance of the UAE, has issued Decision No. (4) of 2025. This decision outlines the operational procedures for the Central Violations Committee and the Grievances Committee under the Financial Audit Authority in Dubai. The new procedures are applicable to employees and senior officials, including CEOs and individuals in higher executive roles within the Authority’s jurisdiction.

The decision aims to ensure that disciplinary penalties are fair and proportionate to any offenses committed. It employs objective and impartial procedures designed to protect employee rights and enhance accountability within the organization. Furthermore, the decision seeks to safeguard public funds while ensuring that employees adhere to workplace regulations. Employees are also granted the right to appeal decisions affecting their legal status or job conditions, thereby promoting fairness and stability in the workplace.

The decision provides detailed guidance on participation in the Central Violations Committee, outlining its responsibilities and the processes for addressing financial and administrative violations. It establishes clear criteria for disciplinary penalties, ensuring investigations remain objective and that employees can submit written statements in their defense. Notably, the decision prohibits multiple penalties for a single offense and mandates that penalties must be proportionate to the severity of the violation.

Additionally, the decision defines the authority and scope of the Grievances Committee. Employees have a deadline of 15 working days to submit grievances from the date they are informed of a contested decision, with late submissions deemed invalid. Both the employee and the relevant entity must comply with the Grievances Committee’s ruling, and the entity is required to enforce and notify the Financial Audit Authority once the ruling has been executed.

Confidentiality is a key aspect of the decision, as it mandates that both committees maintain discretion regarding all sessions, discussions, records, and information. Disclosures are only permitted with the approval of the Director General of the Financial Audit Authority and if it serves the public interest. Furthermore, the Financial Audit Authority will provide the necessary administrative and technical support to the Central Violations and Grievances Committees to help them fulfill their legal responsibilities, in accordance with Law No. (4) of 2018, which established the Authority.