Dubai Municipality has announced a new set of regulatory requirements governing shared accommodation across the emirate, introducing clearer standards intended to improve living conditions, protect residents and property owners, and reduce overcrowding. The announcement forms part of a comprehensive planning and building requirements guide issued to implement Law No. 4 of 2026, which regulates the occupancy and management of shared housing in Dubai.

According to the municipality, more than 44 areas have been approved for buildings designated for shared accommodation. These include Al Souq Al Kabeer, Al Ras, Al Warqa 1, Al Barsha 1, Al Muraqqabat and Al Rigga, with further locations potentially added following official approval. However, a property being situated within an approved area does not automatically authorise its use for shared housing, as the necessary permits and technical conditions must still be satisfied.

The newly issued guide requires each shared housing building to be allocated to one of two categories: individual accommodation or family accommodation. Bedrooms must provide a minimum of five square metres of space per person, while accommodation designated for families must include a separate bedroom with an attached bathroom for each family. These measures are intended to strengthen privacy, comfort and appropriate residential occupancy standards.

The regulations also establish requirements for shared facilities based on the accommodation category and number of residents. These include suitable kitchens, bathrooms, dining areas, recreational facilities and spaces for laundry and clothes drying. Before a shared housing permit can be issued, properties must also comply with relevant fire safety, alarm and security surveillance requirements established by the competent authorities.

Dubai Municipality has granted property owners and management and leasing companies a one-year period to regularise buildings already being used for shared accommodation. The period began when the law took effect on September 8, 2026, making September 8, 2027, the corresponding compliance deadline. Importantly, the grace period does not excuse existing construction violations, unauthorised changes of use or conditions that could endanger public safety.

The municipality confirmed that shared housing permits can be issued and renewed through the Build in Dubai platform, supported by coordination with the Dubai Land Department and other relevant authorities. The framework is designed to create safer and better-regulated residential environments while protecting the interests of occupants and property owners. Collective labour accommodation remains excluded from this particular law because it is governed by separate legislation.