Dubai Police has warned residents against using, buying or trading fireworks during the Eid Al Adha holidays, saying unauthorised pyrotechnics can turn family celebrations into scenes of serious injury, property damage and criminal liability.The warning comes as the UAE marks a long holiday period, with private sector employees off from Tuesday, May 26, to Friday, May 29, and many residents set to extend the break through the weekend. Eid Al Adha falls on Wednesday, May 27, this year, bringing large family gatherings, neighbourhood celebrations and public events across Dubai and other emirates.
Police said fireworks, often treated as a harmless festive accessory, carry a high risk when handled by children or bought through unlicensed sellers. The force cautioned that explosions can cause burns, amputations, loss of body parts and other permanent disabilities, while stray sparks can damage homes, vehicles and public spaces. Residents were urged not to purchase fireworks from informal vendors and to avoid any activity that places children, families or neighbours at risk.
The advisory also underlined the legal consequences of dealing in fireworks without authorisation. Federal Decree Law No. 17 of 2019 on weapons, ammunition, explosives, military hardware and hazardous materials imposes strict controls on explosives and related materials. Under Article 54, anyone who trades in, imports, exports, manufactures or brings fireworks into or out of the country without a licence faces imprisonment of at least one year and a fine of at least Dh100,000, or either penalty.
Dubai Police urged members of the public to report illegal fireworks activity by calling 901 or using the Dubai Police app. The appeal is part of a broader safety campaign during a period when emergency services typically prepare for higher public movement, family visits, crowded leisure areas and increased activity around malls, beaches, parks and residential communities.
Authorities across the UAE have repeatedly warned that children are especially vulnerable to fireworks injuries. Burns to the hands and face, eye injuries and hearing damage are among the common risks associated with unsafe handling. Parents have been asked to supervise children closely during the holiday and to explain that fireworks are not toys, even when they are sold in small packets or marketed for home use.
The warning reflects a wider enforcement trend ahead of major public holidays, when demand for illegal fireworks can rise despite the availability of licensed public displays. Organised pyrotechnic shows are common in the UAE and are conducted under official approvals, with safety distances, trained crews and emergency precautions in place. By contrast, fireworks used in residential streets, balconies, villas or parking areas can create unpredictable hazards, particularly in densely populated neighbourhoods.
Security agencies have also targeted illegal supply chains. Sharjah Police said in March that a man had been arrested after being found with more than 18,000 fireworks, with the material allegedly being advertised and sold to the public from a vehicle. Such seizures point to a continuing underground trade that becomes more visible around Eid, National Day and New Year celebrations.
Dubai’s warning is also linked to the scale of the Eid break. Public sector employees began a longer holiday from Monday, May 25, while schools and many government offices are closed for several days. The extended break is expected to increase traffic around leisure districts and family destinations, as well as demand for public entertainment. Police and municipal authorities are therefore focusing on prevention rather than only post-incident enforcement.
The message to residents is direct: attend authorised displays, avoid private fireworks, and report sellers before injuries occur. Officials have stressed that even a short burst of fireworks can cause life-changing harm, especially when children light them without adult supervision or when devices malfunction.
Retailers, delivery operators and informal sellers also face scrutiny. The ban is not limited to the use of fireworks; it extends to unauthorised trading, importing, exporting, manufacturing and smuggling. That broad legal framing allows enforcement agencies to act against supply, distribution and possession linked to illegal sale, rather than waiting for fireworks to be used in public spaces.
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UAE