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Shared housing contracts in Dubai have to be officially registered now, say lawyers
New registry will formally document tenancy agreements in shared flats, making it easier to verify rights and resolve disputes
- PUBLISHED: Fri 13 Mar 2026, 5:34 PM
Tenancy contracts in shared accommodation will need to be officially recorded in a government registry under Dubai's new housing law, lawyers have said.
The law regulating shared housing in the emirate was recently issued by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
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The legislation introduces a Shared Accommodation Register, where tenancy contracts, management agreements and details of residents living in shared housing units will be recorded.
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Lawyers say this step will help protect residents living in shared flats by ensuring their tenancy arrangements are formally documented.
Dr Hasan Elhais, legal consultant at Amal Al Rashedi Lawyers and Legal Consultants, said registering tenancy contracts creates an important layer of legal protection.
"When tenancy arrangements are recorded in an official registry, it becomes easier to verify the rights and responsibilities of tenants and landlords, and also resolve disputes if they arise,” Elhais said.
Dubai's new law also introduces rules for managing shared housing units across the emirate. Property owners or operators must obtain a permit before designating a residential unit for shared accommodation.
The permit will be valid for one year and can be renewed.
Authorities will also be able to inspect shared housing units to ensure they meet safety, health and occupancy requirements.
Violations may result in fines ranging from Dh500 to Dh500,000, which could double in cases of repeated offences. Authorities may also suspend activities, revoke permits or cancel licences of establishments that fail to comply.
The law applies to residential units across Dubai, including those in private developments and free zones. However, it does not apply to accommodation designated for labour housing.
SM Ayaz Zakir is a Senior Correspondent with a flair for extraordinary stories. His playground? Every corner of the UAE. He often ventures into remote corners of the country to capture compelling news and human interest stories.