Dubai Municipality has introduced new planning regulations, permitting home extensions and additional living spaces within residential properties across the emirate. These changes align with the “Year of Community” initiative, as declared by UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, reinforcing the government’s commitment to enhancing housing conditions for Emirati families.
“Home First” Initiative for Family Well-being
As part of this effort, the “Home First” initiative has been launched to improve residential facilities, ensuring greater family stability and social cohesion. This initiative integrates various urban planning amendments designed to elevate the quality of life for Emirati families. Additionally, it complements the Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum Family Programme, a project spearheaded by Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum bin Juma Al Maktoum, which promotes social values and strengthens family bonds.
Updated Dubai Building Code for Residential Flexibility
To accommodate evolving family needs, Dubai Municipality has revised the Dubai Building Code, introducing greater flexibility in residential development. The new regulations allow Emirati homeowners to construct a side family annex before the main villa, incorporating additional living areas such as bedrooms, kitchens, and living rooms. Moreover, families can now build a separate villa for a son within the same property, ensuring optimal space utilisation while preserving family privacy.
Key Amendments to Setback and Expansion Rules
Under the updated guidelines, homeowners can extend their villas by up to 100% on the second floor. Setback regulations have been adjusted to reduce the minimum setback for villas to 1.5 meters, with an additional 1.5-meter setback applied to rooftop floors. The revised rules also remove setback requirements between service annexes and the main villa, permitting annexes to reach a maximum height of eight meters over two floors. Furthermore, townhouses can now be developed adjacent to each other across two plots, improving urban design efficiency while maintaining architectural harmony.
Commitment to Sustainable and Inclusive Urban Development
Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, Acting Director-General of Dubai Municipality, emphasized that the “Home First” initiative underscores the municipality’s dedication to a sustainable and adaptable urban planning framework. He highlighted that these regulatory enhancements enable Emirati families to personalize their homes according to their evolving requirements while maintaining Dubai’s architectural excellence.
Additionally, the initiative aligns with the objectives of the Dubai Social Agenda 33, which aspires to position Dubai as the leading city for quality living, housing services, and community well-being. By implementing these measures, Dubai Municipality aims to create an inclusive and dignified residential experience that enhances the overall happiness and prosperity of its citizens.
Accessing Further Information
Dubai Municipality encourages Emirati citizens to explore the benefits of this initiative by visiting its official website or contacting its call center at 800 900 for detailed guidance on required documentation.
The municipality remains committed to advancing construction-related services, continuously refining regulations and building codes, and overseeing licensing and urban development activities. These initiatives contribute to a smarter, more sustainable, and globally competitive construction sector, ensuring the highest standards of living in accordance with international urban planning and sustainability benchmarks.