Dubai Police has issued a warning to the public against the use, possession, or trading of fireworks and firecrackers, stressing the dangers they pose to lives, property, and community safety.

In a social media post, the police urged residents to avoid illegal fireworks and reminded them that violators will face legal consequences under UAE law.

Authorities called on the public to report any incidents involving the possession, use, or sale of fireworks by contacting the 901 Call Centre. Officials noted that trading fireworks without a licence can result in up to one year in prison and a fine of up to Dh100,000.

Safety reminder to residents

In another message shared online, Dubai Police urged residents to act responsibly when it comes to fireworks.

“Fireworks may sparkle for seconds, but the consequences can last forever. Choose safety, choose responsibility. Protect yourself and the ones you love with one conscious decision,” the police said.

The warning comes amid ongoing enforcement efforts across the UAE to combat the illegal trade and misuse of fireworks.

Major seizure of illegal fireworks in Sharjah

Recently, Sharjah Police arrested a man who was found in possession of 18,670 illegal fireworks.

Police said the suspect was also using his vehicle to promote the sale of fireworks. The arrest followed careful monitoring by specialised police teams, who tracked the suspect before identifying the storage location.

After completing legal procedures, authorities confirmed the large quantity of fireworks stored illegally.

What UAE law says

Under Article 54 of Federal Decree Law No. 17 of 2019 on Weapons, Ammunition, Explosives, Military Material and Hazardous Substances, trading in illegal fireworks is considered a criminal offence in the UAE.

Anyone who imports, exports, manufactures, sells, or transports fireworks without a licence can face imprisonment for at least one year and a minimum fine of Dh100,000, or either penalty.

Authorities continue to urge residents to follow safety regulations and report illegal activities to help maintain public safety across the country.

Dubai Police have detected attempts by fraudsters exploiting recent developments by impersonating individuals claiming to be affiliated with a so-called “Dubai Crisis Management” department and falsely presenting links to the police force.

Authorities said the scammers are attempting to unlawfully obtain sensitive personal information, including UAE Pass credentials and Emirates ID details.

“Members of the public are strongly urged not to share personal or banking information with any unverified party and to report any suspected fraudulent activity immediately through official channels,” Dubai Police said in a post on social media platform X.

Attempt to access bank accounts

Dubai Police warned that sharing such information could allow criminals to conduct SIM swap operations, a method that enables fraudsters to take control of a victim’s mobile number and gain unauthorised access to banking applications and financial accounts.

Officials stressed that Dubai Police never request confidential information, verification codes, passwords or banking details via phone calls or text messages.

Residents are strongly advised:

• Not to share personal or banking information with unknown callers
• Not to disclose UAE Pass login details or verification codes
• To verify any suspicious communication through official channels

Dubai Police urged the public to report suspicious activity immediately by calling 901 or through the official eCrime platform.

Authorities reiterated that vigilance and awareness remain the strongest defence against fraud attempts.

The UAE Public Prosecution has issued a legal clarification warning that calling for or promoting fundraising activities without a licence from the competent authority constitutes a criminal offence.

In an awareness video published across its official social media platforms, the authority stressed that individuals who create, manage or supervise a website to solicit donations without official approval may face legal consequences.

Online promotion punishable

The warning also applies to anyone who publishes or shares information on electronic networks, or through any form of information technology, to promote the unauthorised collection of funds.

According to the public prosecution, such actions fall under Article 46 of Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021 on combating rumours and cybercrimes, which outlines penalties for violations related to misuse of online platforms.

Authorities added that penalties may also apply to individuals who violate the conditions of an existing fundraising licence.

Part of ‘Wa’i’ awareness campaign

The clarification forms part of the Criminal Media Centre’s “Wa’i” (Awareness) campaign, an initiative aimed at strengthening legal literacy and promoting transparency across society.

Through educational videos and public guidance, the Public Prosecution seeks to inform residents about prevailing legislation and encourage compliance with national laws.

Key takeaway for residents

Before launching or promoting any fundraising campaign, particularly online, individuals and organisations must ensure they obtain approval from the relevant authority and strictly adhere to licence conditions.

Failure to do so may result in legal action under the UAE’s cybercrime legislation.