UAE: New guidelines for public-private partnerships, Sandbox Conditions regulation

The UAE’s Ministry of Finance announced the approval of the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) manual by the UAE Cabinet.

This manual is designed to foster a robust framework for federal government entities to efficiently execute developmental and strategic projects, leveraging the financial, administrative, and technological prowess of the private sector, reported state news agency WAM.

The PPP Manual aims to motivate private sector participation in national projects, enhancing societal and economic benefits.

It outlines procedures for designing, planning, and implementing projects, ensuring transparency and accountability between federal entities and private sector partners.

UAE’s new collaborative framework

The manual specifies the roles and responsibilities of all stakeholders in PPP projects.

It includes guidelines on contract governance, market studies, value-for-money assessments, project structuring, and partner selection. These procedures align with Federal Decree-Law No. 12 of 2023, which regulates federal public-private partnerships.

Mohamed Hadi Al Hussaini, Minister of State for Financial Affairs, highlighted the importance of PPPs in driving sustainable economic growth. He stated, “The UAE is advancing towards sustainable economic development by fostering cooperation between the public and private sectors, enhancing value in public spending, and achieving comprehensive prosperity.”

Al Hussaini emphasised the role of PPPs in improving efficiency, reducing costs, and fostering innovation. He invited the private sector to actively participate in supporting the UAE’s strategic projects and economic goals.

PPP focus on key sectors

The Ministry of Finance, in collaboration with strategic partners, has prioritised sectors such as infrastructure, energy, healthcare, social services, and education for the first phase of PPP projects. This initiative aims to strengthen governance, enhance federal employee skills, and optimise public funds’ use.

Read: Why public-private financing will drive the green transition

Sandbox Conditions regulation

Additionally, the Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) has introduced the Sandbox Conditions Regulation to attract startups and global fintech companies. This regulation creates an innovative and competitive environment within a structured regulatory framework, promoting the financial sector’s growth.

The regulation outlines criteria for participants, including the requirement to present technologically innovative financial products or services.

It allows startups and fintech companies to test their business models within a regulatory sandbox without a full licence, provided they meet ongoing regulatory obligations.

Khaled Mohamed Balama, Governor of the CBUAE, stated, “The Sandbox Conditions regulation reflects the UAE’s commitment to fostering innovation and building a knowledge-based economy. It offers a platform for experimentation, encouraging innovators to contribute to economic growth while ensuring consumer protection.”

Implementation and impact

The PPP Manual and the Sandbox Conditions regulation are crucial steps in the UAE’s strategy to integrate private sector expertise into public projects and stimulate the financial sector’s innovation.

This regulation has been published in the Official Gazette and is now in effect, setting the stage for growth in the country’s financial and private sectors.

Read: UAE launches Global TradeTech Sandbox at WEF