Bad News for Kenyans as Unexpected News Emerges from One of Their Most Frequently Visited Country

Dubai has introduced new housing rules that could affect how thousands of Kenyans and other foreign workers find affordable places to live in the Gulf city.

The new regulations control shared accommodation, where several people rent rooms or live together to reduce their monthly expenses. The changes are expected to affect workers who depend on shared apartments to manage the high cost of living.

According to reports published on Wednesday, October 7, Dubai’s Law No. 4 of 2026 separates family accommodation from housing occupied by individuals. Families and individual residents will not be allowed to share the same residential unit under the new rules.

The regulations also set minimum space requirements. Each occupant must have at least five square metres of bedroom space, while a complete bathroom must be available for every four residents.

Authorities have also restricted individual shared accommodation along selected major roads, including Sheikh Zayed Road, Jumeirah Road, Baniyas Road and Al Wasl Road. These locations will be reserved for family accommodation under the rules.

The law does not completely ban foreigners or Kenyan workers from living in shared housing. Instead, the accommodation must meet the required standards and be located in approved areas.

Property owners and operators have been given a period to bring existing properties into compliance. Violations can attract fines ranging from AED 500 to AED 500,000, with higher penalties for repeat offences.

For Kenyans working in hospitality, retail, healthcare, aviation and domestic service, the changes could affect their housing choices. Many workers share accommodation to reduce rent and send more money home to their families.

The new rules come as Dubai continues to regulate shared housing and address overcrowding, safety concerns and unauthorised subletting.

Kenyans planning to travel to Dubai for work, as well as those already living there, may need to confirm that their accommodation meets the new requirements before making housing arrangements.

Do you think the new housing rules will make life more difficult for Kenyan workers in Dubai?

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