H.H. Sheikh Mohammed introduces new public safety law

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, issued a new law on Friday, aimed at strengthening public safety across Dubai, setting out stricter standards for venues, events and public spaces.

Law No. (2) of 2026, which will come into force on June 1, establishes a legislative framework designed to protect lives and property, reduce accidents and ensure public services and products meet safety requirements.

It places oversight responsibility with Dubai Municipality’s Environment, Health and Safety Agency, which will work with other authorities to regulate safety standards and enforce compliance.

Under the legislation, venues and events must meet a range of safety requirements, including safe entry and exit routes, limits on crowd numbers, adequate lighting and ventilation, and controls on noise levels. Organisers will also be required to provide fire-fighting equipment, emergency evacuation plans, first-aid supplies, trained safety supervisors, alarm systems and clear safety signage.

The rules also extend to building maintenance, electrical equipment and safety at beaches and swimming pools. Owners, operators and service providers must follow the standards set by authorities to ensure public safety.

Members of the public are also required to follow safety instructions in public spaces and events, cooperate with safety supervisors and adhere to emergency procedures. The law also sets restrictions on activities considered hazardous, including handling explosives, fireworks or toxic materials without authorisation.

Businesses are prohibited from selling or using products that do not meet safety standards, and items intended for public use must include instructions in both Arabic and English.

Anyone who breaches the law could face fines ranging from AED500 to AED1 million, with repeat offences within a year potentially doubling penalties to AED2 million.

Authorities will have enforcement powers to record violations and refer cases to police if necessary. Those affected by decisions under the law will be able to appeal within 10 working days.

The new legislation replaces Local Order No. 11 of 2003 on public health and community safety, although existing regulations will remain in place until new rules are introduced.

Officials say businesses and other affected parties will have up to two years to comply with the new requirements, with a possible extension approved by Dubai’s Executive Council.