Executive Council

The Executive Council is the local executive authority of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. It assists the Ruler to carry out his duties and powers. The Council holds weekly meetings in Abu Dhabi to discuss issues and memos referred to it by Abu Dhabi’s departments and governmental authorities, concerning the progress of government-sponsored projects, the development of services and the improvement of governmental performance in Abu Dhabi.

In 1971, a Council of Ministers was formed in the Abu Dhabi Emirate by virtue of the provisions of Law No. (1) to reorganise the government apparatus. But in 1974, the said law was superseded and substituted with Law No. (1), which organised the government apparatus, renaming the "Council of Ministers" as the "Abu Dhabi Executive Council."

The Executive Council is chaired by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces. Its membership is formed by chairmen of the local government departments, some local authorities and other members appointed by the Ruler.

Executive Committee

The Executive Committee was formed, with limited financial powers, pursuant to Resolution No. (53) of 2006 issued by the Executive Council Chairman to decide on the projects submitted to the Council. 

Jurisdiction of the Executive Committee

The Executive Committee has the power to make all project-related decisions, such as negotiations, change orders, etc. It coordinates with relevant entities to study the subjects that should be elevated to the Executive Council, such as bills. The Executive Committee oversees the implementation of its resolutions through the General Secretariat divisions.

Subcommittees

Pursuant to Resolution No. (15) of 2007 issued by The Secretary General, Executive Council subcommittees were formed and comprised of government department chairmen or representatives holding undersecretary or equivalent positions. The powers of each subcommittee were identified according to its scope of work. The following subcommittees are established:

  • Economic Development Sub Committee.
  • Social Development Sub Committee.
  • Infrastructure and Environment Sub Committee.

Note that some members of these committees are not members of the Executive Council.