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Farms cannot be rented out as labour housing: DM

A municipal inspection team had recently conducted surprise visits to the area in a bid to enforce a Dubai Executive Council decision that bans the use of agricultural farms in the emirate as labour accommodation. The decision (No. 19 of 2007), which was issued by Shaikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Council, seeks to preserve the aesthetic appearance of the city and effective use of lands in the emirate.

Inspectors found that the farm owners were using the government-allotted plots for purposes other than that was specified in the deed. Some of the plots were rented out to be used as stores, mechanical workshops, family accommodation, or bachelor housing.

The farm owners were asked by the municipality to evict the occupants and remove unauthorised structures inside the farms.

Strict measures will be taken by the municipality, including withdrawal of licences and disconnection of utility lines. Contracting companies housing their labourers in such areas would face punitive actions like suspension of licences. Their transactions with the municipality, including online transactions, would also be suspended.

The municipality has asked farm owners to refrain from this practice as it might affect the area’s tranquillity and there is a likelihood of crimes being committed by people who want to use these farms as a hide-out.

The municipal inspection team has decided to intensify surprise raids on all farms to detect violations.

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