The government has introduced a series of safety and regulatory measures to address the long‑standing issue of bachelor housing – particularly in the Capital Governorate. The initiatives are aimed at protecting neighbourhoods while safeguarding workers’ rights, Parliament and Shura Council Affairs Minister Ghanim Al Buainain said.
“The government is committed to regulating shared communal housing for expatriate workers according to clear and balanced standards that preserve public security, protect society, and guarantee workers’ rights,” he noted, while responding to an amended parliamentary proposal on monitoring expats’ accommodations.
One of the key measures highlighted was Resolution No 17 of 2020, which allows the construction of workers’ accommodation within industrial zones, easing pressure on residential neighbourhoods. The regulation also permits a limited number of workers to reside permanently within industrial plots for operational and security purposes.
“This step directly contributes to reducing overcrowding in residential areas and ensures that accommodation meets approved safety and operational standards,” Mr Al Buainain said.
Health and safety requirements are governed by ministerial decisions, which obligate employers to provide safe, hygienic housing that meets strict specifications for space, ventilation, sanitation and maintenance. Employers are also required to notify the Labour Ministry of housing details within 15 days.
To strengthen enforcement, multi-agency field inspection teams have been deployed across governorates, led by governors and comprising officials from the Ministries of Health, Labour, Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture, the Labour Market Regulatory Authority, Civil Defence and other relevant bodies.
“These teams conduct inspections, monitor violations and take immediate legal action to rectify non-compliant housing,” the minister said.
Further controls are enforced through municipal regulations, including Resolution No 35 of 2015, which obliges property owners to register shared accommodation and meet defined space and occupancy standards.
Municipalities also have the authority to cancel lease registrations and disconnect electricity and water services from violating properties.
In the Capital Governorate, landlords are required to submit engineering certificates confirming compliance – renewed every three years, the minister said.
Mr Al Buainain added that the Interior Ministry and Civil Defence play a crucial role in responding to complaints, enforcing residency laws and ensuring fire and safety compliance, with deportation measures applied where necessary.
“The government remains keen to regulate bachelor housing in a way that maintains the quality of life in residential areas, supports economic growth and upholds international standards for workers’ rights,” he said.
In another reply regarding proposals to tighten up rules for expats seeking to change jobs, the minister said foreigners cannot switch jobs unless they meet specific requirements and conditions.
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