Dubai Approves 44 Zones for Shared Housing and Grants Owners One Year to Comply

Dubai Municipality has issued new planning and building requirements for a shared housing law, giving property owners and management companies one year to bring properties in line with required standards. The guide for shared housing and permitted areas sets standards for building design, occupancy, health and safety, shared facilities, and permitted locations.

The regulations aim to tackle overcrowding and unregulated residential actions, while protecting the privacy, safety, and rights of owners and occupants. Dubai Municipality stated that more than 44 areas have been approved for shared housing, including Al Souq Al Kabeer, Al Ras, Al Warqa 1, Al Barsha 1, Al Muraqqabat, and Al Rigga, with potential for more additions upon approval.

The move follows the passing of a property law introduced in August that establishes permits and occupancy controls as authorities work to tackle overcrowding and informal housing. Under the requirements, each building must be allocated to a single shared-housing category—either individual or family accommodation—with a minimum bedroom area of five square metres per person.

For family accommodation, each unit must feature a separate bedroom with an en suite bathroom. The guide also establishes requirements for shared facilities and services, mandating kitchens, sanitary facilities, and designated spaces for dining, recreation, laundry, and clothes drying based on the accommodation type and resident count. Labour accommodation is excluded and governed by separate legislation.

Property owners have a full year, starting from the effective date of September 8, 2026, to bring current shared housing buildings into compliance. Maryam Al Muhairi, chief of the Building Regulation and Permits Agency at Dubai Municipality, noted that the guide provides a clear reference for ensuring a safe, healthy, and well-regulated residential environment. Buildings and villas can only be designated for shared housing after obtaining the required permit through the Build in Dubai platform.