Dubai Municipality Launches Major New Housing Rules for Workers
Dubai Municipality has announced significant updates to the planning and design standards for worker accommodation, mandating a minimum of 3.7 square meters of sleeping space per employee. This requirement, detailed on September 18, 2026, marks a 23% increase from the previous benchmark of 3 square meters set in the September 2025 Technical Guidelines for Labour Accommodation Compliance. Additionally, the updated standards require a gross floor area of 8.9 to 10.3 square meters and 0.75 to 1.5 square meters of recreational or outdoor space per person.
Key highlights of the new update:
- New sleeping space requirement of 3.7 square meters per employee
- Gross floor area set between 8.9 to 10.3 square meters
- Survey completed for 1,417 accommodation buildings
- New community markets planned for major industrial areas
Building Inspections and Model Accommodations
As part of a comprehensive improvement package, the Municipality has completed a survey of 1,417 accommodation buildings, evaluating structural conditions, health, and safety compliance. Under a new unified smart classification system, 19 facilities have been recognized as 'model accommodations,' with three receiving Platinum status, nine Gold, and seven Silver.
Infrastructure and Community Markets
The initiative also focuses on pedestrian infrastructure, parking solutions, and the integration of community markets in Muhaisnah 2, Al Quoz Industrial Area 3, Al Quoz 4, and Jebel Ali Industrial Area 1. These market projects cover over 69,000 square meters and are designed to serve more than 640,000 workers.
Compliance and Contact Channels
Accommodation operators are now required to reassess their facilities, including room layout and occupancy levels, to meet the new standards. These regulations apply to workers from nations including India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, and the Philippines, who are employed across the construction, logistics, industrial, hospitality, and service sectors. The Municipality has established a shared government database to track performance indicators and compliance. Workers and stakeholders can submit feedback, suggestions, or complaints regarding safety and living conditions to the Labour Cities Control Section via email at labourcities@dm.gov.ae, the 24/7 Dubai Municipality Call Centre at 800900, the 04 Platform, or the Dubai Municipality mobile application.