Government

Dubai has introduced a new law aimed at strengthening public safety standards across the emirate, covering venues, events, buildings, recreational facilities, and everyday activities.

In his capacity as the Ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates, issued Dubai Law No. 2 of 2026 on Public Safety, which sets out a comprehensive framework to protect lives and property while supporting the emirate’s sustainable growth.

The legislation will come into effect on June 1, 2026, and will be published in the Official Gazette.

Strengthening safety standards

The new law is designed to align Dubai with international safety standards by introducing strict requirements across public venues, services, and products. Authorities say the measures aim to reduce accidents, injuries, and fatalities while ensuring safer environments for residents, visitors, and businesses.

Officials noted that the legislation supports Dubai’s vision of maintaining its reputation as a secure global city.

Safety rules for venues and events

A key focus of the law is ensuring safety in public venues and large gatherings such as entertainment events, tourism activities, and leisure programmes.

Event organisers and venue operators must now comply with detailed safety requirements, including proper lighting, ventilation systems, safe entry and exit points, and crowd management measures to prevent overcrowding.

Venues are also required to provide essential safety equipment such as firefighting tools, alarm systems, emergency evacuation plans, first-aid kits, and trained safety supervisors. Clear safety signage and a public safety management plan are also mandatory.

Authorities say these requirements are particularly important for Dubai’s busy tourism and entertainment sectors, which regularly host large-scale events.

Rules for buildings, homes and recreational areas

The law also introduces safety standards for residential buildings, maintenance activities, and recreational spaces.

Maintenance work in occupied buildings must follow strict procedures, especially when it involves electrical systems or potentially hazardous equipment.

Swimming pools and beaches are also included under the new regulations, requiring operators and property owners to ensure adequate safety measures to protect visitors and residents.

Public responsibilities under the law

Residents and visitors are expected to comply with safety instructions and cooperate with supervisors during emergencies or evacuation procedures.

Beachgoers, for example, must follow designated swimming times, avoid restricted zones, and adhere to safety guidance when using recreational equipment.

Authorities emphasised that public cooperation plays a critical role in maintaining safety across the city.

Restrictions on hazardous materials

The law also introduces restrictions on handling dangerous materials. The unauthorised use or storage of explosives, fireworks, toxic substances, or flammable materials is prohibited.

Individuals are also barred from disposing hazardous materials in regular waste bins, tampering with waste collection vehicles, or interfering with sewer systems and stormwater drains without authorisation.

Additionally, products that fail to meet safety standards cannot be sold or used in the emirate. All products must include safety instructions in both Arabic and English.

Penalties for violations

The legislation sets strict penalties for non-compliance, with fines ranging from Dh500 to Dh1 million depending on the severity of the offence. Repeat violations within a year could result in fines doubling to Dh2 million.

Officials from Dubai Municipality and authorised personnel from other government entities are empowered to document violations, issue reports, and refer serious cases to the police if necessary.

Individuals or businesses affected by enforcement decisions may submit a written appeal within 10 working days. Appeals will be reviewed by a committee appointed by the Director General of Dubai Municipality, with a decision issued within 30 days.

Transition period for compliance

The law replaces Local Order No. 11 of 2003 on Public Health and Community Safety in Dubai and any other provisions that conflict with the new legislation.

Affected entities have up to two years to fully comply with the updated requirements, with the possibility of a one-time extension subject to approval by the Executive Council upon recommendation from Dubai Municipality.

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