MoF announces implementation of the Policies and Procedures Manual for Federal Property Leases

Following the Cabinet’s decision to implement the Policies and Procedures Manual for Federal Property Leases, the Ministry of Finance (MoF) has begun to form a group of specialised federal property management committees across each federal entity. The Policies and Procedures Manual for Federal Property Leases has been developed by the Ministry, which is also authorised to make any necessary adjustments or amendments to the manual.

This manual will replace all previously issued decisions regarding property rental systems in federal government entities, and will act as an essential reference for all ministries and federal entities. The Policies and Procedures Manual will be included in the unified Consolidated Financial Procedures Manual.

The Cabinet’s decision also allows for the formation of a specialised committee within the Federal Property Department in MoF, which will monitor the performance of property rental committees and present its reports to the Cabinet. The committee will serve as a liaison between local governments and the federal government for property grants and withdrawals in cooperation with relevant bodies.

The committees have stressed their commitment to implementing the Policies and Procedures Manual, monitoring any violations, and providing recommendations for enhancing internal control over property rental. This will be achieved by coordinating with internal auditing organisations within federal entities as well as the State Audit Institution.

HE Mariam Mohammad Al Amiri, Assistant Undersecretary for the Management of Financial Resources at MoF, emphasised the importance of policy development and coordination, as well as enhancing the efficiency of financial practices and legislation in order to promote a culture of transparency and optimise the use of government property. HE said: “The Policies and Procedures Manual for Federal Property Leases is designed to provide equality and uniformity amongst investors, and allow SMEs to take advantage of investment opportunities available in the federal government.”

HE added: “The Ministry is working closely with its partners in the preparation and standardisation of financial policies and legislation. The aim is to develop and diversify federal government revenues, manage and oversee their properties, as well as regulate their return on investments in order to manage public money effectively and contribute to sustainable economic development in the UAE.”

The Policies and Procedures Manual for Federal Property Leases provides a framework for leasing operations such as price planning, leasing policies and procedures, rent collections, contract issuance and renewals, delivering possession of rental properties, late payment procedures, contract terminations, tenant relationship management, property maintenance and the insurance of federal properties.  

The Cabinet’s decision was based on a memorandum submitted by MoF to standardise policies and procedures relating to the leasing of federal properties as well as to implement and monitor the leasing operations of  federal entities.

At a later stage, MoF will organise workshops to educate users on The Policies and Procedures Manual for Federal Property Leases and implementation methods.