Dubai allows shared housing in buildings and villas across more than 44 areas

Dubai Municipality issued a circular on 7 October 2026 that lets buildings and villas in more than 44 areas operate as shared housing. It came with a planning and building guide that sets standards for such homes. Both put into practice Law No. 4 of 2026, which governs how shared housing is managed and occupied.

Areas named so far include Al Barsha 1, Al Ras, Al Rigga, Al Muraqqabat, Al Souq Al Kabeer and Al Warqa 1. Along Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Wasl Road, Jumeirah Road and Bani Yas Road, only family sharing is allowed. The municipality said further areas will be published once they are approved.

Shared homes fall into two categories, one for individuals and one for families, and a single unit cannot mix the two. Bedrooms must offer at least 5 square metres per person. Every family needs its own bedroom with an attached bathroom. Kitchens, washrooms and spaces for dining, leisure and laundry are sized by the number of residents. Permits are issued and renewed on the Build in Dubai platform, after fire safety and CCTV checks. Labour camps are outside the scope, as separate legislation covers them.

Owners, property managers and leasing firms have one year, counted from 8 September 2026, to bring existing shared buildings up to standard. That grace period does not cover building violations, unapproved changes of use or conditions that endanger public safety. Fines under the law range from Dh500 to Dh500,000.

Anyone renting a room or a bed space should check that the building sits in a permitted area and that the landlord holds a permit.

Gulf News reported the circular, and Khaleej Times carried further details.