Dubai Municipality has announced the full list of areas where shared accommodation is permitted. Under the authority’s new circular, more than 44 areas across Dubai have been designated for shared accommodation. In some areas, it is permitted only in specified sections, while in others, it is allowed throughout.

Areas where shared accommodation is permitted in designated sections:

  • Abu Hail
  • Al Baraha
  • Al Hamriya
  • Mankhool
  • Al Jaffiliya
  • Al Hudaibiya
  • Al Satwa
  • Port Saeed
  • Hor Al Anz East
  • Al Mamzar
  • Al Qusais Industrial Areas 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5

Areas where shared accommodation is permitted throughout:

  • Al Ras
  • Al Dhagata in Deira
  • Al Bateen
  • Sabkha
  • Eyal Nasser
  • Al Murar
  • Naif
  • Al Rigga
  • Al Muteena
  • Al Muraqqabat
  • Riqqa Al Bateen, near Dubai Creek
  • Hor Al Anz
  • Al Waheeda in Deira
  • Al Rashidiya
  • Al Nahda 1
  • Qusais
  • Al Twar 5
  • Al Nahda 2
  • Muhaisnah 4
  • Souq Kabeer
  • Umm Hurair 1 & 2
  • Al Rafa
  • Karama
  • Oud Metha
  • Jumeirah 1
  • Al Badaa
  • Barsha 1
  • Al Warqa 1

New shared accommodation regulations in Dubai

Under the new legal framework, shared accommodation is divided into two categories: “bachelor or individual accommodation” and “family accommodation”.

Under the regulations, each residential unit may be allocated to only one of these two categories. Individual and family accommodation cannot be combined within the same unit.

At least five square metres of bedroom space must be provided for each person. Residential units must also offer suitable facilities, including a kitchen, bathroom, dining area, rest area and laundry facilities.

Shared accommodation restrictions in commercial and tourism areas

Under the Dubai Municipality circular, properties in commercial and tourism areas, including Baniyas Street, Sheikh Zayed Road, Jumeirah Road and Al Wasl Road, may be used only for family accommodation.

Licensing deadline and substantial fines

Under the new regulations, all properties operating as shared accommodation must obtain an official licence.

Owners and operators of existing shared accommodation have until September 8, 2027 to bring their properties into compliance with the new regulations.

Dubai Municipality also said violations could result in fines ranging from AED 500 to AED 500,000.