The United Arab Emirates stands as a beacon of progress and parliamentary development in the region. A significant milestone in this journey is the convening of the Federal National Council (FNC), a crucial institution shaping the nation’s future. On Monday, November 24, 2025, under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and the direct opening by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, the FNC will commence its third ordinary session of the 18th legislative chapter. This event underscores the UAE’s commitment to participatory governance and national development.
Opening of the Third Ordinary Session of the 18th Legislative Chapter
The inauguration of this session is a testament to the UAE’s leadership’s dedication to strengthening the role of the FNC in the legislative process. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, issued Federal Decree No. (151) of 2025, formally inviting the FNC to convene. The decree stipulates the commencement of the session on Monday, 3 Jumada Al-Akhir 1447 AH, corresponding to November 24, 2025.
The ceremony will be held at the FNC headquarters in Abu Dhabi, with the attendance of Crown Princes, Deputy Rulers, Sheikhs, senior civil and military officials, members of the diplomatic corps, and other dignitaries. This high-level participation highlights the importance placed on the FNC’s role in national affairs.
The Inaugural Ceremony: A Detailed Look
The proceedings will begin with a formal reception of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum by a committee led by the FNC Speaker, Saqr Ghobash, along with council members and the Secretary-General of the Council. Following the reception, His Highness will proceed to the reception hall to greet the Crown Princes, Deputy Rulers, and Sheikhs.
The official opening will take place in the Zayed Hall, commencing with the national anthem and a recitation of verses from the Holy Quran. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum will then deliver the inaugural address, setting the tone for the session. Subsequently, the decree inviting the Council to convene will be read, followed by a speech by the FNC Speaker, Saqr Ghobash. The session will conclude with a farewell to His Highness and a group photograph.
First Session Agenda: Key Priorities and Discussions
Following the opening ceremony, the FNC will hold its first session, also presided over by Saqr Ghobash. A crucial aspect of this session will be the election of observers and the formation of permanent committees. According to Article 40 of the Council’s internal regulations, observers are elected at the beginning of each annual ordinary session, with provisions for filling vacancies as they arise.
Furthermore, Article 45(d) outlines the process for forming permanent committees, which are fully constituted at the start of the first session of each legislative chapter and again in the third session, unless the Office of the Council deems a different schedule more appropriate. This ensures a structured and efficient approach to legislative work.
Key Issues on the Agenda: National Development and Citizen Welfare
The Council will also review Federal Decree No. (73) of 2025, which concludes the second ordinary session of the 18th legislative chapter. Additionally, three messages addressed to the government regarding FNC recommendations will be discussed. These recommendations pertain to policies aimed at enhancing birth rates in the UAE, addressing localization in the government and semi-government sectors, and concerning the Emirates Development Bank.
The Council will also be informed of the Council of Ministers’ approval to discuss three public policy topics: supporting the quality of services provided to senior citizens, enhancing the quality of life and integration of people of determination in education and employment, and promoting localization in the government and semi-government sectors. These discussions demonstrate the FNC’s commitment to addressing critical social and economic issues.
Moreover, the Council will review the Council of Ministers’ decisions regarding FNC recommendations on policies related to improving the efficiency of government sector employees, strengthening the role of government media in fostering national identity, and managing and sustaining endowments and zakat funds to enhance their community role. Finally, the Council will examine draft laws submitted by the government, including a federal law concerning the allocation of the general budget of the Union and the budgets of independent federal entities for the fiscal year 2026, which will be referred to the Financial, Economic, and Industrial Affairs Committee. This legislative agenda is ambitious and reflects the UAE’s forward-looking vision.
The Role of the FNC in UAE Governance
The convening of the FNC’s third ordinary session is a vital step in the UAE’s ongoing journey of parliamentary development. The FNC plays a crucial role in shaping national policies, representing the interests of citizens, and contributing to the overall progress of the nation. The discussions and decisions made during this session will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the future of the UAE. The focus on national priorities such as economic diversification, social welfare, and citizen empowerment underscores the FNC’s commitment to building a prosperous and sustainable future for all. This session promises to be a productive one, furthering the UAE’s position as a leading nation in the region and beyond.