Dubai Issues New Housing Rules Giving 3.7 Square Meters to Every Laborer
Dubai Municipality has issued new, upgraded housing standards for laborers in a move expected to significantly impact labor camps across the emirate. As of September 19, 2026, the municipality has mandated that every laborer must be provided with at least 3.7 square meters of personal sleeping space. This directive holds significant implications for thousands of workers, particularly those from India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh residing in areas such as Al Quoz, Sonapur, and Jebel Ali.
- New upgraded housing standards issued by Dubai Municipality
- Mandatory 3.7 square meters of personal sleeping space per laborer
- Affects workers from India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh in Al Quoz, Sonapur, and Jebel Ali
Survey and Space Requirements
The regulatory update follows a comprehensive survey of 1,417 buildings, resulting in the formal recognition of 19 model accommodation facilities. Under the new standards, the total floor area requirement per person is set between 8.9 and 10.3 square meters. Additionally, the mandate requires an allocation of 0.75 to 1.5 square meters per person for outdoor and recreational space.
Implementation and Compliance
This policy reinforces regulations originally established in 2020 and is now being implemented with increased strictness. The enforcement is expected to force many companies to either restructure their existing large-room layouts or commission the construction of new housing facilities to comply with the updated floor space quotas.