New Home Expansion Rules in Dubai: What Property Owners Should Know

Updated March 2025

Dubai has introduced major updates to its residential planning regulations, giving Emirati homeowners greater freedom to expand and redesign their properties. These reforms, part of the ‘Home First’ initiative led by Dubai Municipality, aim to enhance quality of life, promote family stability, and support modern, inclusive community planning.

Here’s a clear breakdown of what’s changed—and what it means for homeowners.

Under the revised guidelines, Emirati citizens who own homes in Dubai can now:

• Build independent villas for family members (like sons) within existing plots

• Add a second floor to their current home, up to 100% of the ground floor size

• Construct side annexes even before the main villa is built

These changes are designed to foster multi-generational living while preserving privacy and promoting stronger family ties.

Villa Expansions

• Homeowners can extend their villas vertically, adding a full second floor

•  Setback requirements have been reduced to just 1.5 meters for both ground and rooftop floors

• Service annexes (such as kitchens or guest rooms) no longer require spacing from the main villa and can reach up to 8 meters in height over two floors

Townhouse Planning

• Townhouses can now be built across two adjacent plots, allowing for larger layouts and creative architectural designs

•  This encourages efficient use of land while maintaining aesthetic balance in residential communities

According to Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, Acting Director General of Dubai Municipality, these reforms reflect Dubai’s ambition to create “a dignified and inclusive living experience.”

By aligning with the broader goals of Dubai Social Agenda 33, the new home expansion rules aim to:

• Enhance urban design and housing services

•  Support family growth and Emirati cultural values

•  Ensure sustainable land use across the city

Whether you're exploring new construction, adding a guest wing, or designing a villa for your children, understanding these new rules is the first step. For guidance on approvals, architectural planning, or valuation support, our team at Wealth Gate is here to help.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation.