Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Issues New Law to Boost Building Quality and Safety Across Dubai

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has issued Law No. (3) of 2026 on building quality and safety in the emirate.

 

The Law applies to all buildings in Dubai, including private developments and free zones such as the Dubai International Financial Centre, whether constructed before or after its enactment. Its goal is to ensure safety, sustainability, and structural integrity, reduce accidents, protect lives and property, and preserve the emirate’s urban character.

 

Under the Law, Dubai Municipality is responsible for enforcing compliance. Its duties include developing a digital management system, maintaining a unified building database, conducting regular inspections, setting sustainability standards, implementing corrective measures, regulating materials, promoting modern technologies, and managing a digital building portal.

 

All buildings must obtain a Quality and Safety Certificate, issued only after a licensed engineering office conducts a comprehensive assessment of the building’s structural and technical condition in accordance with the Law. Owners, including unit owners under Law No. (6) of 2019 on Joint Property Ownership, must correct any defects identified in inspections, carry out periodic maintenance, and follow authority-approved procedures.

 

Building owners are required to hire licensed engineering offices to prepare technical reports, ensure the safety of all systems, and continue maintenance even after obtaining the certificate. Certificates are valid for 10 years for buildings under 40 years old and five years for buildings 40 years or older, with renewal options set by the Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai (TEC).

 

For buildings approved for demolition, tenants who vacate are given priority to return after reconstruction or repairs at the same rental value unless mutually agreed otherwise.

 

Violations carry fines ranging from Dh100 to Dh1,000,000, doubling for repeat offences within two years. Authorities may also suspend building permits, halt transactions, or block lease certifications until compliance is achieved. Engineering offices and contractors remain legally responsible.

 

Stakeholders may appeal any decision or measure within 30 days, with a committee resolving appeals within 30 days. Government bodies, including the police, must provide assistance if requested by authorities.

 

Building owners, contractors, and engineering offices must comply within one year of the Law taking effect, with possible extensions by the Chairman of TEC. Any provisions in other laws conflicting with this Law are annulled. It will be published in the Official Gazette and becomes effective 60 days after publication.

 

For any enquiries or information, contact ask@tlr.ae or call us on +971 52 644 3004. Follow The Law Reporters on WhatsApp Channels.