Dubai Municipality issues new shared housing regulations

Dubai Municipality has introduced a new Planning and Building Requirements Guide for Shared Housing and Permitted Areas to implement Law No. (4) of 2026. The regulation aims to improve quality of life, reduce overcrowding, and enhance public health and safety standards across the emirate.

Property owners, managers, and leasing companies have been granted a one-year grace period from September 8, 2026, to bring existing shared housing into compliance with the new standards. However, this grace period does not apply to dangerous violations or unauthorized uses, which must be corrected immediately. Immediate actions are required for issues such as blocked fire exits, unsafe electrical wiring, overcrowded rooms, and unsanitary facilities.

Key requirements under the new guide include a minimum of 5 square meters of bedroom space per person and specific classifications for individual or family accommodation. Families must have separate bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms. Additionally, all buildings must obtain a shared housing permit through the Build in Dubai platform and meet Dubai Civil Defence fire safety requirements.