Properties Face September 2027 Deadline Under New Shared Housing Rules
Dubai Municipality has introduced Law No. (4) of 2026 to regulate shared accommodation across the emirate, enforcing strict space requirements and location controls.
Under the new legislation, bedrooms in shared housing units must offer a minimum of five square metres of space per occupant. For family accommodation, the law requires that each family member be provided with a separate bedroom and an en-suite bathroom.
The update targets property owners, licensed real estate establishments, and authorised building operators across more than 44 designated areas. Individual tenants living in or seeking shared housing are directly impacted by neighborhood-specific restrictions.
Only property owners or licensed entities are permitted to lease properties designated for shared housing. Authorised operators can manage buildings or sublet units on behalf of owners, provided all municipal planning, building, and occupancy permits are secured first.
Where Shared Housing Is Permitted
Shared living is fully permitted across entire neighborhoods, including Al Ras, Al Dhagata, Al Bateen, Sabkha, Eyal Nasser, Al Murar, Naif, Al Waheeda, Al Rashidiya, Al Nahda 1 and 2, Al Qusais, Al Twar 5, Muisnah 4, and Souq Kabeer. The full-access list extends to Umm Hurair 1 and 2, Al Raffa, Karama, Oud Metha, Jumeirah 1, Al Badaa, Al Barsha 1, Al Rigga, Al Muteena, Al Muraqqabat, Riqqa Al Bateen near the Creek, Hor Al Anz, and Al Warqa.
Other districts apply rules selectively, restricting shared living to specific designated pockets. Areas operating under these partial zoning limits include Abu Hail, Al Baraha, Al Hamriya, Mankhool, Al Jaffiliya, Al Hudaibiya, and Al Satwa. Landlords in these zones must verify specific local zoning maps before converting spaces.
Individual shared accommodation is strictly prohibited along major thoroughfares, including Sheikh Zayed Road, Jumeirah Road, Al Wasl Road, and Baniyas Road, where residential housing is reserved exclusively for families.
Building owners have until September 8, 2027, to modify non-compliant properties and obtain the necessary municipal permits.
