Dubai: Landlords operating approved shared housing properties in Dubai are not required to provide a minimum number of car parking spaces for tenants under the emirate’s new shared accommodation regulations.
The exemption is part of regulations issued by Dubai Municipality governing shared accommodation properties.
No Minimum Car Parking Requirement
Unlike other residential developments, shared housing properties are exempt from the requirement to provide a specified number of car parking bays.
However, landlords must comply with regulations covering areas adjacent to the property and parking spaces located within the road reserve.
Any use of such areas for parking requires approval from the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and must comply with Dubai Building Code requirements.
Bicycle Parking Is Mandatory
While the minimum car parking requirement is waived, property owners must provide bicycle parking.
The regulations require bicycle parking equivalent to at least 10 per cent of the building’s total number of occupants.
For example, a shared housing property accommodating 100 residents must provide at least 10 bicycle parking spaces.
Bicycle parking may be provided within the road reserve, but only after obtaining approval from the RTA and other relevant authorities.
What Tenants Need to Know
The rules mean shared accommodation may not include dedicated car parking, which could be an important consideration for residents who depend on private vehicles.
Tenants are advised to confirm available parking arrangements with the landlord or building management before signing a lease.
Fines Up to Dh500,000
The new shared accommodation regulations, issued by Dubai Municipality through Circular No. (1-3-1) of 2026, set requirements covering permits, leasing, safety standards and violations.
Penalties for violations can range from Dh500 to Dh500,000.
The rules apply to both new buildings and existing properties that are modified to operate as shared accommodation. Property owners are required to comply with the regulations by September 8, 2027.
