Dubai has enacted a new public safety law that replaces legislation dating back to 2003, establishing rules for venues, events, buildings, beaches and consumer products, and introducing fines of up to AED 2 million for repeat offenders.
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. The law takes effect on June 1, 2026 and will be published in the Official Gazette.
The law aims to protect lives and property by reducing injuries, fatalities, and damage from accidents, and by ensuring the safety of public services and products available in the market. It also seeks to establish preventive standards in line with international best practices and to raise public awareness of safety measures.
Law No. 2 of 2026: Dubai’s new public safety framework explained
Dubai Municipality’s Environment, Health and Safety Agency has been assigned responsibility for overseeing and regulating public safety across the emirate, in coordination with relevant authorities, according to a statement by the Dubai Media Office.
The law sets out requirements for venues and events covering equipment standards, lighting, ventilation, safe entry and exit, limits on the number of people permitted inside to prevent overcrowding, and controls on noise levels to avoid hearing hazards.
Venues and events are required to provide fire-fighting equipment, emergency evacuation measures, first-aid supplies, trained safety supervisors, alarm systems, safety signage, and a public safety management plan. The law also supports Dubai’s tourism and leisure sectors by enforcing safety standards at entertainment venues.
The legislation extends to maintenance activities at inhabited buildings and homes, electrical devices and equipment, and swimming pools and beaches. Owners, operators, and service providers are required to comply with the law, related regulations, and guidelines issued by the relevant authorities.
Members of the public must observe permitted swimming times at beaches, avoid restricted areas, and follow safety instructions when using equipment.
The law defines the responsibilities of the public, requiring compliance with safety procedures, instructions, and guidelines in public spaces, entertainment venues, and events. People must follow guidance on the use of equipment, cooperate with safety supervisors, and adhere to emergency evacuation procedures.
Dubai Municipality to oversee public safety under new 2026 law
Any further obligations may be set by the Director General of Dubai Municipality to ensure public safety.
The law prohibits the handling of explosives, fireworks, toxic or flammable materials, or other products considered unsafe, without authorisation. It also forbids placing such materials in waste containers or collection vehicles, moving or tampering with those containers, and opening or interfering with manholes, sewer pipes, or stormwater drains, except by authorised personnel.
The use or sale of tools, devices, or products intended for human use, entertainment, or education is prohibited if those items do not meet the public safety requirements set out in the law or pose a risk to public safety. All such items must include safe-use instructions in both Arabic and English. No activity that poses a risk to public safety may be carried out unless authorised by the relevant authorities.
Anyone who violates the law, its regulations, or guidelines may be fined between AED500 and AED1,000,000. Offences repeated within a year are subject to a doubled fine of up to AED2,000,000. The Executive Council of Dubai will specify which actions constitute violations and the corresponding fines.
Dubai Municipality staff and employees of relevant authorities designated by the Director General, or by relevant heads, have judicial enforcement powers to document violations, issue reports, and, where necessary, involve the police.
Any affected party has the right to submit a written appeal against decisions, actions, or measures taken under the law within 10 working days of being notified. Appeals are decided 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 is final.
Dubai Municipality and the relevant authorities are not liable for harm caused by an owner’s failure to comply with public safety requirements; the owner alone bears responsibility in such cases.
All affected parties must comply with the provisions of the law within two years. A one-time extension of the same period may be granted by the Executive Council on the recommendation of the Municipality.
The law annuls Local Order No. (11) of 2003 on public health and community safety in Dubai, including all its amendments, and any conflicting provisions in other legislation. Existing regulations, decisions, and guidelines issued under the 2003 order remain in effect to the extent they do not conflict with the new law, until replaced by updated provisions.
