Dubai lists 44 areas that can offer shared housing

Dubai will permit buildings and villas across 44 areas to offer shared housing, in a move to reduce overcrowding and enhance public health and safety standards.

It was outlined under the Dubai Municipality's newly released guide for "Shared Housing and Permitted Areas".

Among the 44 areas are Al Souq Al Kabeer, Al Ras, Al Warqa 1, Al Barsha 1, Al Muraqqabat and Al Rigga, with additional areas to be announced following approvals, the authority added. 

According to the Law Regulating the Occupancy and Management of Shared Housing in Dubai, a minimum bedroom area of 5 square metres per person in individual accommodation, and a separate bedroom for each family in family accommodation.

Each building must be allocated to one category of shared housing, either individual or family accommodation, and have an entire year from September 8 to regularise their status.

The guide "sets out planning, building, technical, health and public safety requirements, as well as the areas where buildings may be allocated for shared housing," highlighted Maryam Al Muhairi, CEO of the Building Regulation and Permits Agency at Dubai Municipality.

"This will contribute to providing a safe, healthy and well-regulated residential environment for different segments of the community, while translating the provisions of the Shared Housing Law related to protecting rights and enhancing public health and safety."