Toyota building demolition: What Dubai tenants need to know about partitions and eviction

Dubai’s Toyota Building on Sheikh Zayed Road faces demolition in 2027, with nearly 70% of its tenants already vacating. However, this situation has raised concerns about tenant rights, illegal partitions, and the rules governing shared housing in the emirate. Building management stated that residents were not forcibly removed, yet electricity to the building has been cut off.

Some tenants still have rental contracts valid until December 2026. The management is unaware of the reason for the electricity disconnection and attributes it to Dubai Municipality.

The issue of partitioned apartments within the building remains unresolved, as the management is not permitted to enter rented apartments after handing them over to tenants. Tenants who divide their units into unauthorized rooms or beds without the required permit can face eviction and fines. In Dubai, only property owners or authorized companies can legally operate shared accommodations.

Residents cannot divide their apartments and rent out rooms or beds without permission. The new law establishes a regulatory framework for shared housing, setting standards for population density, infrastructure, sewage systems, urban planning, and surrounding neighborhood characteristics. Property owners or authorized companies must obtain a permit before converting a unit for shared housing.