Flat sharing has come to be an affordable source of housing among residents in Dubai, a busy and costly city that presents a big challenge to working professionals, single parents, and students trying to cope-up with increasing costs of living. We do need to realize, however, that although flat sharing is a relatively normal occurrence, it has to be conducted in the legal parameters outlined by the authorities in Dubai.
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Is Flat Sharing Legal in Dubai?
It is definitely possible to rent a flat to share it with someone in Dubai, as long as there are conditions met. According to Article 24 of the Dubai Tenancy Law, it is not permitted that a tenant sublets or assigns the enjoyment of a property that he has rented to another person without the written approval of the landlord.
By this, it implies that in case you are residing in rented apartment, and intend to share the apartment with another person you have to seek the written permission of your landlord first. In the absence of this agreement, you might be against the tenancy regulations, and thus a threat that may result in eviction.
What Happens If You Share a Flat Without Consent?
Subletting without the landlord consent in writing is been regarded as illegal subletting. This may culminate into an eviction as stated in Article 25 (1) (b) and (c) of the Amended Dubai Tenancy Law, both the tenant and subtenant. Besides, in case the unit is subjected to at least some of its use in violation of the public order or morals, additional legal implications can be achieved.
Note: The sub tenant can claim compensation against the main tenant in case it is found that it is illegally sublet.
Partitioned Rooms Are Not Allowed
During their latest crackdown, Dubai Municipality, with the concurrence of the Dubai Land Department and the Dubai Civil Defence, has been increasing inspection in multi-storey buildings and banning so-called partitioned rooms, which are an illegal practice frequently employed by dividing an apartment into unsafe conditions in order to house more than a single individual.
Efficiencies with partitioned rooms are not only against the law, but also dangerous with regard to fire hazard and safety. When they are detected, these arrangements are destroyed on the spot and their operators can be fined or prosecuted.
How to Share a Flat Legally in Dubai
So what can you do legally to find a flat mate even as a single mother or as an individual who seeks to save money by sharing the cost of rent in an apartment?
- Get Written Consent: You should never move into a place or share space with others without prior written consent of the landlord or the property management.
- Avoid Partitioned Units: Never occupy or rent a flat which has been subdivided by use of improper or unauthorized partitions.
- Check Building Rules: There are certain policy building or communities where shared accommodation may or may not be available. Proceed to an agreement after first consulting the management.
- Have a Clear Agreement: In case you will be having roommates make sure that the names of all tenants are either mentioned in lease agreement or have it accepted by the landlord in writing.
- Register Tenancy with Ejari: Every tenancy agreement has to be registered in Ejari, which is an official rental registration system in Dubai, to guarantee legal security of tenants.
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Final Word
The concept of flat sharing can be a legal and reasonable alternative housing in Dubai provided it is done in an appropriate manner. Always make sure you are keeping on the right side of the law by obtaining landlord permission, never having partition rooms and residing in approved setups. This should not only safeguard your rights as a tenant but also ensure you live in a safe environment throughout the city.