The Dubai Municipality (DM) has published a complete list of districts where shared accommodation will be permitted. According to a circular issued by this civic authority, over 44 districts across Dubai have been designated for co-living. Some of these areas allow such residency only in specifically designated parts, while others permit it throughout the entire territory.
Co-living is allowed in specific parts of the following districts: Abu Hail, Al Baraha, Al Hamriya, Mankhool, Al Jafiliya, Al Hudaybiyah, Al Satwa, Port Said, Khor Al Anz East, Al Mamzar, as well as the industrial zones of Al Quusais 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5.
In the remaining districts, co-living is permitted across the entire area: Al Ras, Al Dagata (Deira), Al Bateen, Sabkha, Eyal Nasser, Al Murar, Naif, Al Rigga, Al Mutina, Al Murakkabat, Rikka Al Bateen (near Dubai Creek), Khor Al Anz, Al Wahida in Deira, Al Rashidiya, Al Nahda 1, Quusais, Al Twar 5, Al Nahda 2, Muhaisnah 4, Souk Kabir, Umm Hurair 1 and 2, Al Rafa, Karama, Old Meta, Jumeirah 1, Al Badaa, Barsha 1, Al Warka 1.
The new system classifies co-living into two categories: individual and family. A residential unit can belong to only one of these categories, and they cannot be combined. Furthermore, the rules stipulate a minimum bedroom size of five square meters per person, as well as the availability of appropriate amenities such as a kitchen, bathroom, dining area, lounge, and laundry room.
In tourist and commercial zones, including Baniyas Road, Sheikh Zayed Road, Jumeirah Road, and Al Wasl Road, housing may only be used for family residency. Property owners must have a license to operate as co-living accommodation. Existing properties have until September 8, 2027, to legalize their status, while violations may result in fines ranging from 500 to 500,000 dirhams.