A new health regulation, Law No. (5) of 2025 on Public Health in the Emirate of Dubai, will take effect at the end of July 2025. Issued by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the law introduces updated health regulations that impact work and residency exams, as well as driving licenses.

This legislation aims to enhance health standards in various sectors of the Dubai community.

The law mandates the development of regulations, standards, and procedures for conducting medical examinations, including pre-employment tests, residency applications, driver’s licenses, professional driver permits, and professional health card issuance.

Key authorities, such as the Dubai Health Authority (DHA), will oversee these implementations.

In terms of family health, the law emphasizes maternal health throughout pregnancy, childbirth, and the postnatal period.

It includes educational initiatives aimed at helping mothers understand optimal birth spacing and resources for safe pregnancy planning.

Specifically, the DHA has been assigned 14 distinct tasks related to individual health in coordination with other competent authorities.

Among these responsibilities are setting public health policies, overseeing vaccinations, promoting healthy lifestyles, and ensuring effective medical screening processes.

The DHA's expanded responsibilities include:
- Promoting the physical and mental well-being of adolescents and adults.

- Combating behaviors that are detrimental to health.

- Integrating comprehensive healthcare services for the elderly.

- Initiating awareness campaigns regarding the risks associated with psychoactive substance abuse.

- Educating the public about health risks, preventive practices, and the significance of regular health screenings.

Additionally, the DHA will support medical research and studies to enhance the understanding of health-related issues and will establish frameworks to protect patients' rights and ensure privacy.

The law details ten specific responsibilities related to family health, encouraging preventative measures within households and addressing maternal health, child vaccination programs, and premarital screenings for hereditary diseases.

Furthermore, it mandates the creation of family health education initiatives focusing on nutrition and preventive health.

The public health law aims to mitigate risks affecting community health in Dubai, increase public awareness about health issues, and promote individual responsibility for public health.

It seeks to ensure a healthy living environment and enhance the emirate's attractiveness for residency and business.

Sanctions outlined in the law for violations vary, with fines ranging from Dh500 to Dh1,000,000.

Subsequent offenses within a year may incur doubled fines, with a cap at Dh2,000,000, based on a resolution from the Chairman of the Executive Council.

Key components of the new health regulations include:
- Updated standards for medical exams relevant to employment, residency, and driving licenses.

- Initiatives aimed at protecting adolescent health and addressing high-risk behaviors.

- A commitment to integrated elder healthcare.

- Efforts to raise awareness about the dangers of substance abuse.

- Implementation of supportive health programs targeting families across Dubai.