Muharraq Housing Crackdown: 70+ Properties Flagged for Safety Violations
Muharraq Municipality has launched an intensive inspection campaign targeting shared and collective accommodations, issuing formal notices to more than 70 properties as of September 21, 2026. The crackdown follows the discovery of numerous properties failing to meet essential health, safety, security, and technical standards.
The enforcement action directly impacts thousands of expatriate workers residing in various types of shared living arrangements, including company-provided housing, shared flats, and dedicated labour accommodations.
Focus on Resident Safety
The municipality's recent surge in inspections is designed to ensure that living environments are fit for purpose. Rather than focusing solely on administrative tenancy paperwork, authorities are prioritizing the physical safety of the occupants.
Municipality Director General Khalid Al Qallaf stated that inspections focus on building safety, fire protection, and technical suitability rather than just tenancy paperwork.
The crackdown specifically targets risks associated with:
- Structural building safety
- Effective fire protection measures
- Technical suitability of the facilities
Strict Compliance and Potential Utility Cuts
To operate legally, property owners and operators must navigate a rigorous approval process. They are required to secure clearances from several key regulatory bodies, including:
- The Ministry of Health
- The General Directorate of Civil Defence
- The Electricity and Water Authority (EWA)
- The Municipality
Non-compliance is not a minor issue. Property owners who fail to address these violations face serious repercussions, including legal action and formal requests to the Electricity and Water Authority to disconnect utility services.
Advice for Expatriate Workers
Expatriate workers, particularly those employed in the construction, hospitality, and industrial sectors, are advised to be vigilant regarding their living conditions. While a municipal notice does not signal immediate eviction, it is a warning that the property must be corrected to avoid service disruptions.
Residents are encouraged to take the following steps:
- Verify Registration: Confirm with employers or landlords that the housing is officially registered.
- Monitor Hazards: Watch for signs of overcrowding, blocked fire exits, or poor sanitation.
- Keep Records: Maintain copies of essential documentation, such as ID/CPR copies and rent contracts.
Official Inquiries
For further information or to make official inquiries, residents and owners can contact the Muharraq Municipality customer service centre in Busaiteen. The centre operates from Sunday to Thursday, between 7:00 AM and 2:30 PM, or can be reached by calling 17984083.