Dubai Municipality has proposed new planning guidelines that would allow homeowners to extend their homes and add living space.
In conjunction with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s “Year of Community,” Dubai Municipality launched the “Home First” project to improve housing facilities for Emirati families.
The proposal proposes a comprehensive set of urban planning adjustments aimed at improving family stability, social cohesion, and quality of life for Emirati families.
Dubai residential planning code
“Home First” also supports the Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum Family Programme, founded by Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum bin Juma Al Maktoum, wife of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai.
The initiative aims to enhance family relationships, promote social values, and provide a long-term residential environment that matches the changing needs of Emirati families.
As part of the program, Dubai Municipality has amended the Dubai Building Code to provide for greater freedom in residential planning, allowing Emiratis to personalize their homes to their social and family demands.
The new regulations allow for the construction of a side family annexe before the main villa, which includes additional living spaces such as bedrooms, living rooms and kitchens.
Emirati homeowners can even construct a separate villa for a son on the existing family property, ensuring optimal space utilization and solitude while retaining strong family ties.
The idea allows families to fully extend their villas on the second story.
Setback standards have also been updated, lowering the minimum setback for villas to 1.5m and adding an extra 1.5m setback for rooftop levels across all building boundaries.
Furthermore, setbacks between service annexes and the main villa have been eliminated, and the amended regulations allow service annexes to reach a height of up to eight metres across two stories.
Townhouses can now be erected next to each other on two plots, increasing urban planning efficiency while maintaining architectural harmony.
Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, Acting Director-General of Dubai Municipality, said: “The Home First initiative reinforces Dubai Municipality’s commitment to a flexible and sustainable urban planning framework that supports family well-being and community stability.
“These new allowances provide Emirati families with adaptable housing facilities that meet their evolving needs while upholding Dubai’s high architectural standards.
“The initiative aligns with the goals of the Dubai Social Agenda 33, which aims to position Dubai as the world’s best city for living, housing services, and community well-being.
“By implementing these measures, we are fostering a dignified and inclusive living experience that enhances the happiness and prosperity of all citizens.”
Dubai Municipality urges Emirati individuals to learn more about the initiative’s benefits by visiting its official website for comprehensive documentation requirements or calling 800 900.
Dubai Municipality maintains committed to improving construction-related services, rules, and building codes while also overseeing licenses, construction activities, and strategic urban planning.
These initiatives contribute to the development of a smart, sustainable, and globally competitive building sector, assuring the best quality of life in accordance with international urban planning and sustainability standards in the emirate.
