What Dubai's new shared housing law means for tenants, landlords and operators

Dubai's new shared housing law, effective September 2027, aims to regulate informal subletting and improve living conditions for tenants. The legislation establishes permits, occupancy limits, safety standards, and tenancy rights for shared accommodations, such as rooms in apartments. However, several questions remain unanswered.

Taimur Khan, head of research for the Middle East and Africa at JLL, emphasizes the importance of this regulation due to safety concerns and the prevalence of illegal shared accommodations. He anticipates a swift response from the property market, as heavy penalties discourage non-compliance.

The law applies to residential apartments, stand-alone houses, residential complexes, mixed-use buildings, adjoining houses, and multistorey buildings. However, it does not specify occupancy limits for studios and one- or two-bedroom apartments. The permitted number of occupants will depend on factors such as the property's size, location, technical capacity, and permit conditions.

The regulation does not outright ban informal shared accommodations but prioritizes safety and compliance. Inspectors will assess properties based on fire safety, sanitation, environment, security, and electricity network standards before granting permits. Tenants can expect protection through registered leases, clear communication of rights and emergency contacts, and the ability to challenge evictions within seven days.