Does your business have to hold public liability insurance?

Does the law require every business to hold it?

No published UAE rule requires every business to hold public liability insurance. The requirement comes from the authority, free zone or landlord you deal with. Check each one that applies to you.

Use the requirement finder to see the rule for your situation with its source.

Do free zones require it?

DMCC, Jafza and the DWTC free zone all ask for it. DMCC makes it mandatory for all companies except those in business centre or flexi desk units, and will not renew a licence without active insurance.¹ Jafza lists it for offices, plots, warehouses, showrooms and workstations.² DWTC sets limits by headcount.³ Details are in the free zones guide.

Do building and fit-out works need it?

Yes, in Dubai. To get a permit for building construction, alterations or additions of 300 sq m or more, demolition or shoring, a contractor must submit a policy that covers the works and civil liability towards third parties.⁴ RAKEZ requires public and third party liability cover before building works start.⁵ Landlords add their own minimums, such as AED 3 million for retail fit-out contractors at Central Park Towers.⁶ See fit-out permits.

Do gyms, events and tourism businesses need it?

In Dubai, a gym or other sports establishment needs an insurance policy to get its permit, and a sports event needs cover for damage to third parties.⁷ A Dubai tourist camp must hold cover for damage to visitors and staff.⁸ Commercial maritime work on a vessel in Dubai needs third party liability insurance.⁹

In Abu Dhabi, a consumer exhibition application must include insurance for the exhibition, and an event with rides and games needs an insurer covering the event and the area.¹⁰

What if nobody requires it?

A claim can still reach you. Under the Civil Transactions Law, every act causing harm to another obliges the person who did it to compensate for the damage.¹¹ See liability under UAE law.

Ask your licensing authority, landlord and main clients in writing whether they require cover and at what limit, and keep the replies with your licence papers.