Dubai announces 44+ approved zones for shared housing
Dubai Municipality has released a comprehensive list of more than 44 areas where shared housing, including bed spaces and partitions, is officially permitted. This regulatory update, issued under Law No. 4 of 2026, provides clarity for thousands of expatriates living in the city's older and mid-range neighborhoods.
Where shared housing is permitted
The approved list includes several major residential hubs across the emirate. Residents can legally utilize shared accommodations in the following areas:
- Al Ras, Al Dhagata (Deira), Al Bateen, Sabkha, and Eyal Nasser
- Al Murar, Naif, Al Rigga, Al Muteena, and Al Muraqqabat
- Riqqa Al Bateen, Hor Al Anz, Al Waheeda, and Al Rashidiya
- Al Nahda 1, Al Qusais, Al Twar 5, and Al Nahda 2
- Muhaisnah 4, Souq Kabeer, Umm Hurair 1 & 2, and Al Raffa
- Karama, Oud Metha, Jumeirah 1, Al Badaa, Al Barsha 1, and Al Warqa 1
Restricted areas and strict bans
While many areas are fully open to shared living, others face tighter controls. In regions such as Abu Hail, Al Baraha, Al Hamriya, Mankhool, Al Jaffiliya, Al Hudaibiya, Al Satwa, and certain industrial zones, shared housing is strictly limited to designated parts only.
Furthermore, the municipality has implemented a total ban on shared housing for unrelated individuals along several major arteries. In Sheikh Zayed Road, Jumeirah Road, Al Wasl Road, and Baniyas Road, shared living is only permitted if the occupants are members of the same family.
New occupancy and space rules
To improve living conditions, the new regulations mandate strict minimum standards for all shared accommodations. These include:
- Minimum Space: Each occupant must have at least 5 square metres of space in the bedroom.
- Sanitary Facilities: Every four occupants must have access to at least one complete bathroom, which must include a sink, toilet, and shower.
- Strict Segregation: Residential units must be designated for either families or individuals; families and unrelated persons are prohibited from cohabitating in the same unit.
- Subletting Ban: Tenants are prohibited from subletting their space. Only property owners or licensed establishments are allowed to offer shared housing.
Heavy fines for violations
Existing operators and tenants have until September 8, 2027, to ensure full compliance with these new standards. Failure to adhere to the rules will result in severe penalties.
Fines for violations range from Dh500 to Dh500,000. For repeat offenders within a single year, fines can escalate to as much as Dh1 million. Beyond financial penalties, the municipality may also revoke licenses, disconnect utilities, suspend services, or issue eviction notices.
The move comes as market data shows that bed spaces in popular areas like Karama, Al Barsha 1, Al Nahda, and Deira typically cost around AED 400 per month, while partitions generally start at AED 1,200 per month.