Dubai United Arab Emirates
Question: I understand there is a new law governing shared housing in Dubai. I am currently looking for shared accommodation and would like to know how I can ensure that I am not violating the law. What should I check before renting a place?
Answer: Pursuant to your query, the provisions of the Dubai Law No. (4) of 2026 Regulating the Occupation and Management of Shared Housing in the Emirate of Dubai (“Shared Housing Law”) are applicable.
As a prospective tenant you may undertake the following checks.
Under Article 8 of the Shared Housing Law, a property may not be designated for shared housing without obtaining the required permit from the competent authority. Accordingly, a prospective tenant should confirm with the property owner or a licensed establishment managing the property to confirm that the necessary permit has been obtained and is vali
Under Articles 9, 14, 15 and 16 of the Shared Housing Law, shared housing must comply with the applicable technical, planning, building, health and safety requirements. These include the permitted number of occupants, the space allocated to each occupant, the category of persons permitted to reside together and the relevant requirements for common facilities and services. A prospective tenant should therefore verify that the proposed occupancy arrangement is permitted and that the property is suitable for the intended residential use.
Under Article 11 of the Shared Housing Law, only the property owner or a licensed establishment managing the property may lease shared housing, and occupants are not permitted to sublet it. Under Article 12 of the Shared Housing Law, the relevant shared-housing activity must also be duly authorised by the Dubai Land Department in accordance with the applicable licensing requirements. A prospective tenant should therefore confirm the identity and authority of the person or establishment offering the accommodation
Under Article 17 of the Shared Housing Law, the relevant tenancy and management contracts, together with occupant information, must be entered into the Shared Housing Register maintained by the Dubai Land Department. The law also provides that tenancy contracts and amendments must be registered to be effective. A prospective tenant should request a written contract, confirm that it accurately records the agreed rent, occupancy arrangements, duration and other material terms, and obtain confirmation of the applicable registration.
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