Supreme Legislation Committee organises workshop on formal and substantive aspects of legislation
The General Secretariat of the Supreme Legislation Committee in the Emirate of Dubai (SLC) has organised an educational workshop titled “Formal and Substantive Aspects of Legislation”, aimed at strengthening the legislative knowledge of legal professionals across government entities. Held on 4 November 2025 via video conference, the session was led by Dr. Faisal Al Omari, Legal Advisor at the SLC, and focused on enhancing understanding of legislation from both formal and substantive perspectives.
The workshop explored a range of key themes, including the concept and significance of legislation, the mandatory procedural steps required for preparing federal and local laws, and the consequences of failing to meet formal requirements. Participants were briefed on substantive elements of legislation, the scrutiny process covering both form and content, and the link between formal structure and substantive meaning. The session also presented examples of laws deemed unconstitutional due to procedural or substantive shortcomings.
H.E. Ahmad Saeed Bin Meshar, Secretary General of the Supreme Legislation Committee, reaffirmed the SLC’s ongoing efforts to develop the legislative expertise of Dubai Government legal professionals. He emphasised the importance of building a robust and forward-looking legislative framework that meets current needs, anticipates future developments and supports the Emirate’s long-term vision. Bin Meshar noted that promoting awareness of both formal and substantive principles of legislative drafting contributes to producing comprehensive, coherent and defect-free legislation aligned with federal and local legal frameworks. He added that this holistic approach strengthens clarity, adaptability and interpretability of laws.
Dr. Al Omari highlighted the role of legislation as a regulatory tool governing the relationship between the state and individuals. He explained that legislative development extends beyond drafting provisions, encompassing the substantive values that promote justice, stability and societal well-being. He stressed the importance of adopting a precise and methodical approach to legislative drafting, enabling effective interpretation and implementation. Dr. Al Omari also underscored the equal importance of formal requirements alongside substantive content, adding that the SLC’s drafting methodology prioritises clarity, precision and alignment with Dubai’s strategic direction as well as federal legislation.
Participants gained an in-depth understanding of the SLC’s procedures for legislation-making, including stages of review, assessment of legal feedback and quality criteria applied to legislative content. The workshop reinforced the importance of balancing form and substance to ensure effective, enforceable and coherent legislation.
This workshop is part of a wider series organised by the SLC’s General Secretariat to promote legislative culture and raise awareness about the importance of adaptable, comprehensive and cohesive legislation across the Dubai Government.
