UAE Accountability Authority
UAA
Summary
The UAE Accountability Authority (UAA) was established by Federal Decree-Law No. 26 of 2019 as the federal anti-corruption and accountability body. Its Director General is appointed by the President of the UAE. The UAA investigates financial and administrative irregularities, corruption, embezzlement, and misuse of public funds in federal entities. It has powers to compel witnesses and obtain records from federal bodies. The Authority coordinates with the Public Prosecution on criminal referrals and supports the UAE's National Anti-Corruption Strategy. Unlike the FAA (which audits), the UAA focuses on investigation and accountability enforcement. It replaced the earlier federal mandate of the Abu Dhabi Accountability Authority at the federal level.
Independence Scorecard
| Appointment | Executive appointment |
|---|---|
| Term length | 4 years |
| Removal standard | At will (weak protection) |
| Budget independence | Executive discretion |
| Subpoena power | Yes |
| Compel testimony | Yes |
| Records access | Full access |
| Public reports required | No |
| Pre-publication review | Executive review |
Statute
- Name
- Federal Decree-Law No. 26 of 2019 Concerning the UAE Accountability Authority
- Citation
- Federal Decree-Law No. 26/2019 (O.G. 662, 2019)
- Full text
- Full text of law →
Jurisdiction scope
Federal government entities and their employees; investigates financial and administrative irregularities, corruption, and misuse of public funds in federal entities; supports UAE anti-corruption strategy.