A new public safety law issued by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, will come into effect on June 1, 2026, establishing a comprehensive legal framework aimed at strengthening safety standards across the emirate.
The legislation seeks to protect lives and property, reduce accidents and injuries, and ensure public services and products meet strict safety standards in line with international best practices.
Here is a breakdown of what the new law means for residents, businesses and visitors.
Who will oversee public safety in Dubai?
The law assigns Dubai Municipality, specifically its Environment, Health and Safety Agency, the responsibility of regulating and overseeing public safety across the emirate in coordination with relevant authorities.
The agency will have clearly defined powers to monitor compliance, enforce regulations and address violations.
New requirements for venues and events
Under the law, venues and event organisers must meet several safety requirements, including:
- Ensuring adequate lighting and ventilation
- Providing safe entry and exit points
- Limiting crowd capacity to prevent overcrowding
- Controlling noise levels to avoid hearing hazards
They must also install or provide:
- Firefighting equipment
- Emergency evacuation systems
- First-aid supplies
- Trained safety supervisors
- Alarm systems and safety signage
- A public safety management plan
Safety rules for buildings, equipment and beaches
The law also introduces safety standards for:
- Maintenance work in inhabited buildings and homes
- Electrical devices and equipment
- Swimming pools and beaches
Property owners, operators and service providers must comply with the regulations and guidelines issued by authorities to ensure public safety.
What responsibilities do residents have?
Residents and visitors are required to follow safety procedures and guidelines in public spaces and venues. This includes:
- Following safety instructions and evacuation procedures
- Cooperating with public safety supervisors
- Using equipment, tools and machines responsibly
- Observing designated swimming hours at beaches
- Avoiding restricted or staff-only areas
Handling explosives, fireworks, toxic or flammable materials without authorisation is also prohibited under the law.
Other prohibited actions
The legislation also bans several unsafe practices, including:
- Placing dangerous materials in waste containers
- Tampering with waste bins, sewer pipes or stormwater drains
- Selling or using unsafe tools or devices that do not meet public safety standards
Products intended for human use, education or entertainment must also include clear safety instructions in both Arabic and English.
What are the penalties for violations?
Anyone who violates the law or related regulations may face fines ranging from Dh500 to Dh1 million. Repeat offences within one year could result in fines of up to Dh2 million.
Authorities designated by Dubai Municipality will have judicial enforcement powers to document violations, issue reports and involve the police when necessary.
Can people appeal penalties?
The law allows affected individuals or entities to submit a written appeal within 10 working days after being notified of a decision or penalty.
Appeals will be reviewed by a committee appointed by the municipality, with a final decision issued within 30 days.
When will the law take effect?
The new public safety law will take effect on June 1, 2026. Entities affected by the legislation will have two years to comply, with a possible one-time extension approved by the Executive Council of Dubai based on recommendations from Dubai Municipality.
