Dubai’s real estate market is facing increased scrutiny as the Dubai Land Department (DLD) enforces strict occupancy regulations to combat overcrowding.
On August 19, the DLD announced it had banned ten property owners from leasing their properties due to violations of overcrowding and safety standards. This action is part of a broader campaign to ensure compliance with Dubai’s stringent residential regulations.
According to Mohammed Kawasmi, a partner at Al Tamimi & Co., Dubai’s building code stipulates that each individual must have a minimum of 5.0 square metres of net area in residential villas and apartments.
This regulation aims to prevent overcrowding, which is defined as having more than one person occupying the 5.0 square metre space, thus violating local laws. Net area refers to the usable space available to residents, excluding common areas, structural elements, and spaces occupied by building services.
For labour accommodations and similar facilities, the rule is slightly more lenient, allowing one person per 3.7 square metres.
However, the DLD’s recent enforcement highlights that compliance with these regulations is crucial for maintaining the safety and stability of Dubai’s real estate market.
The DLD’s crackdown followed thorough inspection campaigns conducted in partnership with various strategic partners.
The inspections revealed that the affected properties were in violation of the overcrowding, health, and safety standards mandated by Dubai’s regulations.
As a result, the DLD has prohibited these property owners from leasing or subleasing their properties until they address the issues and meet the required standards.
“This enforcement action underscores the critical importance of adhering to overcrowding regulations in Dubai’s residential market,” Kawasmi emphasized.
“Property owners must ensure that the number of residents per bedroom meets the legal requirements. The DLD’s decision serves as a warning of the potential risks and penalties for non-compliance, including significant fines and leasing prohibitions.”
The recent measures highlight the DLD’s commitment to upholding occupancy limits and ensuring tenant safety.
The crackdown also aims to protect the reputation and stability of Dubai’s real estate market, reinforcing the need for property owners to adhere to health and safety standards.
In addition to residential properties, Dubai has similar maximum capacity laws for various other real estate sectors, including retail spaces, malls, schools, hospitals, storage facilities, and factories.
For instance, classrooms in schools and colleges must provide 1.9 square metres of space per occupant, while laboratories and vocational facilities are allocated 4.6 square metres per individual.
Furthermore, the DLD has emphasized that unauthorized sharing of leased properties without the landlord’s consent constitutes a breach of tenancy law.
This violation not only entitles the landlord to terminate tenancy contracts but also exposes the property owner to fines imposed by the competent authorities.
As Dubai continues to grow and develop, these stringent regulations and enforcement actions reflect the city’s ongoing efforts to balance urban development with safety and quality of life.
Property owners are advised to review and comply with the relevant laws to avoid legal repercussions and contribute to the orderly functioning of the real estate market.