Dubai has introduced a sweeping new law aimed at strengthening safety standards across the emirate, covering everything from public venues and events to maintenance work in homes and buildings.
In his capacity as the Ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, issued Law No. (2) of 2026 on Public Safety in the Emirate of Dubai, establishing a clear legislative framework designed to protect individuals and property while supporting the city’s sustainable development.
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The new legislation will come into effect on June 1, 2026 and will be published in the Official Gazette, a Dubai Media Office report said.
Officials say the law is intended to create a comprehensive safety system aligned with international best practices, while also increasing public awareness and accountability around safety procedures.
Framework to protect lives and property
The law seeks to reduce injuries, fatalities and property damage caused by accidents across Dubai.
Authorities say it also aims to ensure that products and services available in the market meet strict safety requirements.
In addition, the legislation establishes preventive safety standards that align with global benchmarks, strengthening Dubai’s position as one of the world’s safest cities. The rules will also apply to public venues and large events, where safety procedures must be followed to protect visitors and participants.
Officials say the measures are expected to support Dubai’s tourism and entertainment sectors by ensuring safe environments at attractions, festivals and large gatherings. The law also emphasises the role of the community in maintaining safety standards by encouraging residents and visitors to follow guidelines and cooperate with authorities.
Dubai Municipality to oversee implementation
Under the new law, Dubai Municipality’s Environment, Health and Safety Agency will be responsible for overseeing public safety across the emirate.
The agency will coordinate with relevant authorities to regulate safety practices, monitor compliance and ensure the law is properly enforced. It will also be granted clearly defined powers and responsibilities to carry out inspections, regulate safety standards and respond to violations.
Authorities say this centralised oversight will help ensure consistent safety policies across Dubai’s public spaces, facilities and services.
Strict safety rules for venues and events
The legislation introduces detailed public safety requirements for venues hosting events and public gatherings.
These rules cover a wide range of safety considerations, including equipment standards, lighting, ventilation and safe entry and exit points. Venue operators must also limit the number of people inside facilities to prevent overcrowding, while noise levels must be controlled to avoid hearing hazards and excessive sound exposure.
Additional safety measures include the mandatory provision of firefighting equipment, emergency evacuation plans, first-aid supplies and alarm systems. Venues will also be required to install safety signage and appoint trained safety supervisors responsible for monitoring compliance during events.
Authorities say operators must also develop a public safety management plan to ensure the safety of attendees at all <a href="https://jordangazette.com/staying-calm-in-uncertain-times-heres-<a href="https://jordangazette.com/editors-note-iran-suspends-missile-launches-at-gcc-what-it-means/”>what-uae-mental-health-professionals-advise/”>times.
Safety standards for buildings, equipment and beaches
The law also introduces public safety requirements for maintenance work and equipment used in homes, buildings and recreational areas.
These include safety standards related to electrical devices, maintenance operations and facilities such as swimming pools and beaches. Property owners, operators and service providers must comply with the law and follow all related regulations and guidelines issued by relevant authorities.
Officials say the measures are intended to reduce accidents linked to poorly maintained infrastructure or unsafe equipment.
Responsibilities for the public
The legislation also outlines responsibilities for residents and visitors using public spaces.
Members of the public are required to follow safety procedures, instructions and guidelines when visiting public areas, entertainment venues and events. They must also use equipment, machines and tools according to official guidance and cooperate with safety supervisors when required.
In emergency situations, individuals must follow evacuation procedures and instructions issued by authorities. Additional responsibilities apply to beach safety. The law requires beachgoers to respect permitted swimming times and avoid restricted zones reserved for staff or other unauthorised areas.
Authorities say these measures are designed to ensure public cooperation in maintaining safe environments across the emirate.
Restrictions on hazardous materials and unsafe products
The law also introduces strict restrictions on hazardous materials.
Handling explosives, fireworks, toxic substances or flammable materials without authorization will be prohibited. Individuals are also forbidden from placing dangerous materials in waste containers or collection vehicles.
The legislation further bans tampering with waste containers or opening manholes, sewer pipes or stormwater drains unless authorised to do so. Authorities say these measures are intended to prevent accidents and protect public infrastructure.
The law also prohibits the sale or use of tools, devices or products intended for human use, entertainment or education if they fail to meet the safety requirements outlined in the legislation. Any such items must include safe-use instructions in both Arabic and English.
In addition, individuals are not permitted to engage in activities that could pose a risk to public safety unless they are authorised by relevant authorities and comply with all safety requirements.
Violations and penalties
Anyone found violating the law, its regulations or related guidelines may face fines ranging from Dhs500 to Dhs1,000,000.
If the same violation is repeated within one year, the penalty may double, reaching up to Dhs2,000,000. The Executive Council of Dubai will determine specific actions considered violations and the corresponding fines.
Enforcement and appeals
Dubai Municipality and employees of relevant authorities appointed by the director general will have judicial enforcement powers under the law.
These officials will be authorised to document violations, issue reports and, when necessary, coordinate with police authorities. Individuals or entities affected by decisions or measures taken under the law will have the right to submit a written appeal within 10 working days of receiving notification.
Appeals will be reviewed within 30 days by a committee appointed by the director general of Dubai Municipality, the relevant authority or an entity authorised by the municipality.
The committee’s decision will be final.
Transition period for compliance
The law also clarifies liability in cases of non-compliance. Dubai Municipality and relevant authorities will not be responsible for harm caused by an owner’s failure to meet public safety requirements. Responsibility will rest solely with the owner.
Affected parties will be required to comply with the provisions of the new legislation within two years.
However, a one-time extension for the same period may be granted by the Executive Council based on a recommendation from Dubai Municipality.
Previous law replaced
The new legislation replaces Local Order No. (11) of 2003 on Public Health and Community Safety in Dubai, including its amendments.
Any provisions in other legislation that conflict with the new law will also be annulled. Existing regulations and guidelines issued under the previous order will remain in force as long as they do not contradict the new law, until they are replaced by updated rules.
Authorities say the updated framework reflects Dubai’s continued efforts to strengthen safety systems and align its regulations with global standards.
