Dubai enacts whistleblower protections for public staff reporting financial irregularities

Dubai has announced a new government measure aimed at protecting public sector employees who report financial or administrative violations.

Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Finance of the UAE, has issued a new decision to support greater transparency and accountability in public administration.

The decision applies to employees working in entities overseen by the Financial Audit Authority in Dubai. It ensures that individuals who disclose information about financial or administrative irregularities—or who assist in related investigations—are protected from any form of retaliation or pressure.

The new directive outlines clear procedures for requesting protection, defines who is eligible, and mandates strict confidentiality of all submitted reports. It also sets standards for the qualifications of investigators handling these cases.

The Decision is effective immediately and will be published in the Official Gazette.