Dubai gives building owners 12 months to comply with shared housing rules

Dubai Municipality has introduced comprehensive regulations governing shared accommodation, granting building owners a 12-month transition period to achieve full compliance, according to The National.

Authorities have designated more than 40 residential areas across the emirate under the initiative, aiming to curb overcrowding and unauthorized subletting following an influx of more than 200,000 residents in 2026.

Under the new rules, properties eligible for shared housing permits must provide a minimum space requirement of five square metres per occupant per bedroom across six approved building types.

Violations of occupancy and safety standards will incur fines ranging from Dh500 to Dh500,000 for property owners. Penalties for repeat offences committed within 12 months will double, reaching up to Dh1 million.