Dubai regularly updates its rules to keep life in the emirate comfortable and well organised. As part of this effort, a new law on the quality and safety of buildings has been issued, aimed at ensuring properties remain properly maintained and safe for the people who live and work in them.
The rules apply to all buildings in the emirate, including those located in private development areas and free zones such as the Dubai International Financial Centre. They cover buildings completed both before and after the law comes into force.
One of the key requirements is a Quality and Safety Certificate. Building owners are responsible for obtaining this document after construction and fixing any problems identified during inspections. Before the certificate can be issued, a licensed engineering office must inspect the building and assess its structural and technical condition.
Violations of the law may lead to fines ranging from AED 100 to AED 1 million. Repeat offences within two years may result in doubled penalties.
If you live in Dubai, you may also want to take a look at two other recent laws: the public safety law, announced in March 2026, and the Child Digital Safety Law designed to protect children online.
