UAE authorities are intensifying efforts to combat unsafe and unauthorized housing practices, including overcrowding and illegal sub-letting. In the latest enforcement wave, violations such as unauthorised partitions, sub-leasing without approval, and exceeding occupancy limits may now result in hefty fines of up to Dh50,000, along with eviction and revocation of rental contracts.
In Dubai, recent crackdowns revealed that many buildings had been illegally modified — rooms partitioned and beds stacked far beyond safe capacity, often without permits from Dubai Municipality. Authorities warn these practices create fire hazards, restrict emergency access, and breach building and safety codes.
The enforcement comes amid city-wide inspections in neighbourhoods like Satwa, Rigga, Barsha and Muraqqabat, where landlords and tenants have faced legal consequences including fines, eviction, and in some cases, blacklisting.
Officials urge landlords, tenants, and property managers to ensure all accommodations comply with occupancy and safety standards under the law — including proper registration, approved floor plans, and transparent tenancy contracts.