A new law regulating shared accommodation across Dubai came into force on Wednesday, introducing tighter controls over who may operate and lease shared housing.
Under the regulations, tenants are prohibited from subletting rooms, bed spaces or other parts of a residential unit. Shared accommodation may be rented only by property owners or companies authorised to manage or lease units on their behalf.
Properties designated for shared housing will require permits from Dubai Municipality, while occupancy limits, health and safety standards and building requirements will form part of the regulatory framework. Accommodation specifically designated for labourers is not covered by the law.
Owners and operators have been given one year, until August 26, 2027, to bring existing properties into compliance.
Violations may attract fines ranging from Dh500 to Dh500,000. Penalties may be doubled to as much as Dh1 million when an offence is repeated within a year. Authorities may also suspend operations, cancel permits, disconnect services or order occupants to leave non-compliant properties.