New Law on Lost and Abandoned Property in Ajman
Introduction of Law No. (2) of 2026
His Highness Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, the Ruler of Ajman and Supreme Council Member, has recently enacted Law No. (2) of 2026 regarding the management of lost and abandoned property in the Emirate of Ajman. This law aims to provide a clear framework for handling movable assets that have been lost or intentionally abandoned within the region.
Definitions and Scope
Lost Property
Under this new legislation, lost property is defined as movable items that have value—either intrinsic or to their owner—and have been lost without the owner’s intention to surrender them. It’s important to note that this definition specifically excludes stray animals.
Abandoned Property
Abandoned property is categorized as movable assets that have been intentionally forsaken by their owners. This can either be explicit or implicit abandonment. Similar to lost property, stray animals are not included in this definition.
Responsibilities of Ajman Police
The law outlines the specific duties entrusted to Ajman Police in relation to lost and abandoned property:
- Receiving Reports: The police are responsible for managing reports of lost or found items.
- Custody of Items: Officers will take custody of these items and ensure they are stored safely.
- Public Announcements: They will announce the existence of found items through appropriate channels.
- Cost Assessment: The police are tasked with calculating the costs involved in storage, announcement, and disposal of these items.
In addition, Ajman Police will maintain detailed records related to lost and abandoned property. This documentation will include descriptions, the date and location of finding, details of the finder, and any other relevant information.
Procedures for Finders
Notification Timeline
Individuals who find lost property must report it to the police within 48 hours. Exceptions may apply if the police recognize a valid reason for delay. Importantly, finders cannot keep or sell the item with the intention of claiming ownership.
Documentation of Findings
When a lost item is reported, the police will provide an official receipt. This receipt will include specific details such as the item’s condition, information about the finder, and where it was located.
Rights of Property Owners
According to the new law, owners of lost items have the right to reclaim their property from Ajman Police before any disposal occurs. If an item has been sold, the original owner can claim its monetary value within five years. Should the police dispose of an item without proper compensation, the owner retains the ability to trace and recover it from subsequent holders.
Claiming Time Limits
Claims for lost property or its value must be made with valid justification within 15 years from the date the item was found. If the item is sold, proceeds will be returned to the owner after deducting storage and announcement costs as determined by Ajman Police.
Recognizing Honesty
The law includes provisions to honor finders. Those who return lost property in good faith may receive a certificate of appreciation or even a financial reward, which can be deducted from the total value of the item or its sale proceeds.
Obligations of Entities
All government entities and private organizations are required to cooperate with Ajman Police to facilitate their responsibilities under this law. This includes handing over any lost or abandoned property in their possession within designated timeframes.
Regulatory Implementation
The Commander-in-Chief of Ajman Police will be tasked with issuing necessary regulatory measures to ensure the law is effectively implemented. Furthermore, this new legislation supersedes any conflicting provisions in existing laws.
Effective Date
Law No. (2) of 2026 will be implemented immediately from the date of issuance and will be published in the Official Gazette, ensuring that the community is informed and can comply with these new regulations.
