Dubai has officially introduced a new housing law that shall come into force. The law has given a timeline to follow the rule to the property owner, tenants, and accommodation operator. After the rule was applied, if someone violated it, they would have to pay Dh 1 million.
According to the Dubai Municipality, Law number (4) of 2026 regarding shared housing will be implemented 180 days after its publication in the Dubai Municipality’s Official Gazette, where those tenants that have been subletting or using bed spaces in Dubai’s properties shall cease doing so before the implementation of the law. The operators already in business shall be given one year’s time to regularise themselves according to the new law.
The legislation is part of Dubai’s broader efforts to improve residential safety, eliminate overcrowded living conditions, and bring shared accommodation under a formal licensing system. Authorities say the new framework is designed to protect residents’ welfare, strengthen oversight of rental practices and support the long-term stability of the emirate’s real estate market.
Under the law, no residential property may be designated for shared housing without obtaining a permit from Dubai Municipality. Only property owners or licensed management companies will be authorised to lease approved shared accommodation, while tenants will no longer be allowed to sublease rooms or portions of their rented units. Properties must also comply with occupancy limits, health requirements, fire safety standards, and technical regulations established by the municipality.
Violations will carry financial penalties ranging from Dh500 to Dh500,000, with fines doubling for repeat offences committed within a year, allowing authorities to impose penalties of up to Dh1 million. Regulators may also suspend business activities, revoke permits, disconnect services or order the evacuation of non-compliant properties where necessary.
Dubai Municipality will oversee permits, inspections, and compliance, while the Dubai Land Department will manage contract registration and related tenancy procedures. Officials say the new rules are intended to formalise a housing segment widely used by workers and expatriates while ensuring accommodation meets safety and planning standards across the emirate.
