Definition

The Federal National Council (FNC), known in Arabic as al-Majlis al-Watani al-Ittihadi, is the UAE’s federal parliamentary body established under the 1971 Constitution. It functions as a consultative legislature with the authority to review proposed federal legislation, question government ministers, and discuss matters of national policy. The FNC does not hold full legislative power — it cannot initiate laws or override executive decisions — but it serves as a formal mechanism for citizen representation and government accountability within the UAE’s constitutional framework.

UAE Context

The FNC comprises 40 members. Half are elected through a limited electoral college and half are appointed by the rulers of each emirate. Seat allocation reflects emirate size: Abu Dhabi and Dubai each hold eight seats, Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah hold six each, and Ajman, Fujairah, and Umm Al Quwain hold four each. The electoral college system was introduced in 2006 and expanded in subsequent cycles, with the 2019 elections seeing the electoral college grow to over 337,000 eligible voters. Women hold a constitutionally mandated 50 percent of FNC seats following a 2018 presidential decree.

Key Data

The FNC convenes for two legislative sessions annually and reviews all federal draft laws before they are enacted. In the 17th legislative term (2023-2027), the council has prioritised housing, education, healthcare, and economic diversification. The 50 percent female representation requirement makes the FNC one of the most gender-balanced parliamentary bodies in the Arab world.

Vision 2031 Significance

The FNC plays a central role in the UAE’s political development strategy, which aims to deepen citizen participation while maintaining institutional stability. Expanding the electoral college, increasing public engagement with FNC proceedings, and strengthening the council’s oversight functions are all components of the UAE’s gradual approach to broadening political participation.

Related Terms

• UAE Cabinet — The executive body whose draft legislation the FNC reviews.
• Supreme Council of the Union — The highest constitutional authority, composed of the seven emirate rulers.
• Political Participation — The broader governance framework within which the FNC operates.
• Gender Balance — A national priority reflected in the FNC’s 50 percent female representation mandate.