Abu Dhabi Civil Defence urges businesses to strengthen fire safety protocols
The Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority has called on businesses to ensure fire protection systems are operational and staff are trained for emergencies as part of its ongoing Safe Summer Campaign running until August 30, 2026.
Abu Dhabi Civil Defence urges businesses to strengthen fire safety protocols
The Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority has issued a directive to businesses and workplace operators across the emirate to strengthen fire safety measures, emphasizing the need for fully operational protection systems and emergency-ready staff.
The authority stressed that organizations must regularly inspect and maintain fire alarm and firefighting systems in accordance with approved standards. Emergency exits must remain clearly marked, and evacuation routes kept free from obstructions or stored materials at all times.
Employers are encouraged to conduct routine emergency drills and provide staff training on evacuation procedures to improve readiness and minimize risks during fire incidents. The authority emphasized that daily compliance with safety requirements serves as the first line of defense in protecting lives, property and business continuity.
The advisory forms part of the seventh edition of the Safe Summer Campaign, a joint initiative launched by Abu Dhabi Police and the Civil Defence Authority that runs until August 30, 2026. Summer months present heightened fire risks across the UAE, with Ministry of Interior data showing that 43 percent of vehicle fires in 2024 were linked to heat, accounting for 2,189 incidents in Abu Dhabi and Dubai alone.
Regional Civil Defence data underscores the seasonal challenges, with air conditioning overloads identified as a major summer hazard. In Fujairah, residential fires account for approximately 70 percent of all fire incidents, with cooling system failures representing a significant risk factor during high-temperature periods.
Regulatory framework and enforcement
The push for enhanced fire safety compliance operates within a strict regulatory framework. Cabinet Resolution No. 24 of 2012 governs civil defence services across the UAE and imposes a Dh50,000 fine for manufacturing, trading, installing or maintaining fire safety systems without proper approval from the Civil Defence Authority.
In April 2026, the Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority launched a mandatory accreditation initiative requiring engineering consultancy offices to obtain Certified Fire Protection Engineer certification by September 1, 2026, further strengthening professional standards in the sector.
The authority's commitment extends beyond summer campaigns. In February 2026, it launched a field awareness initiative in cooperation with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, targeting workers in labour accommodations across the emirate.
Partners forum strengthens coordination
During its First Partners Forum 2026, the Abu Dhabi Civil Defence reaffirmed that collaboration with public and private sector partners remains central to strengthening the emirate's fire protection framework. The forum brought together government entities, property management companies and fire protection contractors to enhance coordination, improve implementation and raise service quality.
The emphasis on fire safety compliance comes as the UAE fire protection system market continues significant expansion. The sector was valued at USD 2.15 billion in 2025 and is projected to grow at a compound annual rate of 8.60 percent through 2035, driven by strict fire safety laws and sustained construction activity. The UAE government's infrastructure spending pipeline, exceeding AED 500 billion, is expected to drive continued demand for fire safety systems and services.
The Civil Defence Authority noted that ongoing cooperation with stakeholders across sectors will remain essential to maintaining Abu Dhabi's fire protection standards and ensuring workplace safety throughout the year.
