Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Strengthens Public Safety in Dubai with New Law Effective June 2026
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Ruler of Dubai and Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, has enacted Law No. (2) of 2026, which focuses on public safety within the Emirate of Dubai. This legislation is designed to create a comprehensive legal framework aimed at ensuring high safety standards for individuals and property while also promoting sustainable development. The law will take effect on June 1, 2026, and will be published in the Official Gazette.
Objectives of the New Law
The primary goal of this law is to safeguard lives and property by minimizing injuries, fatalities, and damages resulting from accidents. It seeks to ensure the safety of public services and products available in the market, establishing preventive standards that align with international best practices.
In addition, the law aims to enhance public safety at venues and events, thereby bolstering Dubai’s tourism and leisure sectors. It emphasizes the importance of raising community awareness regarding safety measures and encourages public engagement in adhering to these protocols.
Regulatory Oversight
The law designates the Environment, Health and Safety Agency of Dubai Municipality as the primary authority responsible for overseeing and regulating public safety in the emirate. This agency will work in coordination with relevant authorities and will be granted clearly defined powers and responsibilities to effectively fulfill its role.
Safety Standards for Venues and Events
Law No. (2) of 2026 establishes specific safety rules and requirements for venues and events. These include standards for equipment, adequate lighting and ventilation, safe entry and exit protocols, and limits on occupancy to prevent overcrowding. Additionally, the law mandates controls on noise levels to mitigate hearing hazards and excessive sound exposure.
Venues and events are required to provide essential safety measures, including fire-fighting equipment, emergency evacuation plans, first-aid supplies, trained safety supervisors, alarm systems, safety signage, and a comprehensive public safety management plan to protect attendees. The law also sets public safety standards for maintenance activities related to inhabited buildings, electrical devices, and swimming pools and beaches. Compliance with these regulations is mandatory for owners, operators, and service providers.
Public Responsibilities and Compliance
The law outlines the responsibilities of the public, mandating compliance with all public safety procedures, instructions, and guidelines in public spaces, entertainment venues, and events. Individuals are required to follow guidance on the use of equipment and cooperate with public safety supervisors. Adherence to emergency evacuation procedures is also emphasized.
Furthermore, the public must observe designated swimming times at beaches, avoid restricted areas, and follow safety instructions when using equipment. Compliance with any additional obligations set forth by the Director General of Dubai Municipality is also required.
Prohibitions and Penalties
The law strictly prohibits the handling of explosives, fireworks, toxic or flammable materials, and other unsafe products without proper authorization. It also forbids placing dangerous materials in waste containers or collection vehicles and tampering with manholes, sewer pipes, or stormwater drains, except by authorized personnel.
Additionally, the sale or use of any tools, devices, or products intended for human use, entertainment, or education is prohibited if they do not meet the established public safety requirements. Items must include safe-use instructions in both Arabic and English. Engaging in activities that pose a risk to public safety without authorization is also forbidden.
Violators of the law may face fines ranging from AED 500 to AED 1,000,000. Repeat offenses within a year may incur a double fine of up to AED 2,000,000. The Executive Council of Dubai will determine what constitutes a violation and the corresponding penalties.
Enforcement and Appeals
Employees of Dubai Municipality and other relevant authorities, as designated by the Director General, will have the judicial enforcement powers necessary to document violations, issue reports, and involve law enforcement if required.
Affected parties have the right to submit a written appeal against decisions or actions taken under this law within ten working days of being notified. A committee appointed by the Director General will decide on appeals within 30 days, and its decision will be final.
Dubai Municipality and relevant authorities will not be held liable for any harm resulting from an owner’s failure to comply with public safety requirements. The responsibility lies solely with the owner. All affected parties must adhere to the new law within two years, with a potential one-time extension of the same duration approved by the Executive Council based on the Municipality’s recommendation.
Transition from Previous Legislation
This new law annuls Local Order No. (11) of 2003, which addressed public health and community safety in Dubai, along with its amendments and any conflicting provisions in other legislation. Existing regulations and guidelines issued under the previous order will remain in effect until they are replaced by new regulations that do not conflict with the new law.
As reported by www.emirates247.com.
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Published on 2026-03-06 19:20:00 • By FAME Delivered News Desk