Dubai’s shared housing permit system is not yet open for applications, but officials have confirmed that eligible properties will be able to apply once the full set of rules and requirements is released.

According to a statement from Dubai Municipality, applications will be accepted through the city’s official digital platforms, following procedures that will be announced in due course. Detailed guidelines are currently being prepared to help property owners and operators understand the new requirements.

In March, a new law was introduced to regulate shared housing across Dubai. The legislation sets clear standards for permits, leasing arrangements, and safety measures. It is designed to protect both residents and property owners, while also preventing overcrowding and unlicensed housing arrangements.

The move follows a series of enforcement actions against overcrowded partitioned and shared apartments in several districts, including Al Rigga, Al Muraqqabat, Al Barsha, Al Satwa, and Al Raffa.

What the permits will cover Although the application process has not yet launched, the municipality has outlined what each permit will include. Permits will confirm that a property meets specific technical requirements, such as the maximum number of residents allowed, the minimum living space per resident, and the shared facilities that must be available inside the unit.

The time needed to process permits and the associated fees are still being finalized as part of the broader implementation plan. These details will be announced together with the application procedures.

Under the new rules, no individual or company may allocate a unit for shared housing without a valid permit. Permits will be issued and renewed by Dubai Municipality, in coordination with the Dubai Land Department and other relevant authorities.

Key rules for owners and tenants One of the biggest changes under the new regulations is that only the property owner or a licensed establishment may lease a shared housing unit. Previously, it was common for a tenant to subdivide and rent out an apartment they had leased from the owner. That practice will no longer be allowed.

Shared housing permits will be valid for one year and can be renewed annually. Owners may also request a two-year permit. Renewal applications must be submitted at least 30 days before the current permit expires.

Leasing can be handled directly by the owner, through a management company acting on the owner’s behalf, or by a licensed establishment that leases the unit from the owner and subleases it to tenants.

Penalties for non-compliance range from 500 to 500,000 dirhams. If the same violation is repeated within one year, the fine will double, up to a maximum of one million dirhams.