Dubai has introduced a comprehensive framework to regulate petroleum products trading as Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum issued Executive Council Resolution No. 85 of 2025, strengthening oversight of the sector and reinforcing the emirate’s economic and environmental security goals.

The resolution governs activities including the import, manufacture, storage, transport, sale, and supply of petroleum across Dubai. It aims to curb illegal trading, protect public safety, and ensure operations align with global best practices. The rules apply to all entities operating in Dubai’s mainland, freezones, and special development zones, except those exempted under a UAE Cabinet decision.

The Dubai Supreme Council of Energy has been assigned full regulatory authority over the sector. Its responsibilities include setting competition rules, approving technical standards, and ensuring compliance with health, safety, and environmental requirements. The Council will also issue, renew, and amend permits based on recommendations from the Petroleum Trading Regulation Committee.

The resolution outlines procedures for obtaining permits, transporting petroleum materials between emirates, and establishing fuel stations. It requires companies to register with the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure’s Petroleum Trading Register and to source materials only from Council approved suppliers that meet technical standards.

Entities must clearly display prices, follow safety rules for storage and transport, and report incidents within 24 hours. They are also obligated to keep records for at least five years and obtain prior approval for any permit changes.

Violations carry fines that may double for repeated offences within one year, reaching up to AED 1 million. Penalties may also include permit cancellations, temporary closures, licence revocations, and the seizure or disposal of non compliant materials and vehicles.

The resolution is effective upon its publication in the Official Gazette, with existing operators given one year to comply.

News Source: Dubai Media Office