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

Dubai's new shared housing law has implemented regulations for subletting rooms, aiming to reduce overcrowding and prevent illegal partitions. The law requires permits, occupancy limits, safety standards, and tenancy rights, with the goal of enhancing living conditions. Taimur Khan, head of research for JLL, anticipates the market will adapt before the September 2027 deadline due to significant penalties for non-compliance.

However, specific details remain unclear. Ahmed Elnaggar, founder of Elnaggar & Partners, explains that the law identifies six property types eligible for shared accommodation, but does not specify limits for studios and one- or two-bedroom apartments. The permitted number of occupants will depend on factors like property size, location, and technical capacity.

Dubai Municipality's enforcement will focus on individual buildings, not entire neighborhoods, and will inspect properties based on fire safety, sanitation, environment, security, and the electricity network. Occupants must register their lease in the Shared Housing Register and be provided with a guide outlining their rights and obligations.

Tenants now have enhanced protection, including registered leases and the ability to retain their tenancy during disputes. Landlords relying on informal shared accommodations may need to comply with the new regulations or shift to conventional renting. If a permit is suspended or cancelled, tenants will have a set timeframe to move out, provided they are lawful occupants.