Mohammed bin Rashid issues new public safety law in Dubai

Protecting lives and property

The law aims to reduce injuries, fatalities, and damage caused by accidents while ensuring the safety of services and products available in the market. It introduces preventive safety standards aligned with international best practices.

Supporting tourism, events, and community awareness

The legislation also focuses on ensuring safety at public venues and events, strengthening Dubai’s tourism and leisure sectors. It promotes community awareness and encourages public participation in following safety measures.

Dubai Municipality’s oversight role

The law assigns the Environment, Health and Safety Agency of Dubai Municipality, in coordination with relevant authorities, the responsibility of regulating and overseeing public safety across the emirate with clearly defined powers and responsibilities.

Safety standards for venues and events

The law sets detailed safety requirements for venues and events, including standards for equipment, adequate lighting and ventilation, safe entry and exit points, and limits on the number of attendees to prevent overcrowding. It also regulates noise levels to protect against hearing hazards.

Emergency preparedness and safety equipment

Venues and event organisers must provide firefighting equipment, emergency evacuation systems, first-aid supplies, trained safety supervisors, alarm systems, and safety signage. They are also required to implement a comprehensive public safety management plan for attendees.

Safety requirements for buildings and public facilities

The law establishes safety standards for maintenance activities related to inhabited buildings and homes, electrical devices and equipment, as well as swimming pools and beaches. Owners, operators, and service providers must comply with all regulations and guidelines to ensure public safety.

Responsibilities of the public

The law outlines responsibilities for individuals, requiring them to follow public safety procedures and instructions in public spaces, entertainment venues, and events. People must use equipment safely, cooperate with safety supervisors, and adhere to evacuation procedures when necessary.

Additional safety obligations

Members of the public must also observe permitted swimming hours at beaches, avoid restricted areas, and comply with safety guidelines when using equipment or facilities. Additional obligations may be issued by the Director General of Dubai Municipality.

Prohibited activities

The law prohibits handling explosives, fireworks, toxic or flammable materials, or other hazardous products without proper authorisation. It also bans placing dangerous materials in waste containers, tampering with waste systems, or interfering with sewer and stormwater infrastructure except by authorised personnel.

Product safety and market regulations

The legislation prohibits the sale or use of tools, devices, or products intended for human use, entertainment, or education if they do not meet public safety standards or pose risks. Products must also include safe-use instructions in both Arabic and English.

Penalties for violations

Violations of the law, its regulations, or guidelines may result in fines ranging from AED 500 to AED 1,000,000, with repeat offences within a year subject to doubled fines of up to AED 2,000,000. The Executive Council of Dubai will determine specific violations and corresponding penalties.

Enforcement and legal authority

Dubai Municipality and designated officials from relevant authorities will have judicial enforcement powers to record violations, issue reports, and involve the police if necessary.

Right to appeal

Affected parties may submit a written appeal against decisions or measures taken under the law within 10 working days of notification. Appeals will be reviewed within 30 days by a committee appointed by the Director General of Dubai Municipality, with the committee’s decision considered final.

Liability and compliance period

Dubai Municipality and relevant authorities will not be liable for harm caused by an owner’s failure to comply with public safety requirements, as responsibility lies with the owner. All concerned parties must comply with the law within two years, with a possible one-time extension approved by the Executive Council based on the Municipality’s recommendation.

Replacing previous legislation

The new law annuls Local Order No. (11) of 2003 on public health and community safety in Dubai, along with its amendments and any conflicting provisions. Existing regulations issued under the previous order will remain in effect until replaced, provided they do not conflict with the new legislation.