Dubai reinforces minimum space and welfare standards for worker accommodation
Dubai Municipality says worker housing must provide at least 3.7 square metres of sleeping space per person, alongside suitable recreation and outdoor areas.
Photo: VinothChandar (CC BY 2.0)
Dubai Municipality has highlighted the planning and welfare standards that apply to labour accommodation, including a minimum sleeping area of 3.7 square metres for each worker. The update follows a survey of more than 1,400 accommodation buildings across the emirate.
The framework also considers outdoor and recreational space, sanitation, maintenance and the overall quality of the living environment. Model accommodation sites can be recognised through Silver, Gold and Platinum classifications.
For employers, accommodation is part of workforce compliance rather than a separate facilities issue. Procurement teams should verify capacity against actual occupancy and retain inspection and maintenance records.
What it means for employers
- Check every room against the 3.7-square-metre-per-person minimum.
- Review recreation, sanitation and maintenance provision, not only bed capacity.
- Include accommodation compliance evidence in labour-supply contracts.
Related pages
Summarised by the Horizon GCC team. Original reporting: Gulf News
This briefing is general information, not legal advice. Confirm current requirements with the relevant authority before acting.
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