Dubai’s New Housing Dispute Law: Fast-Track Solutions for Emirati Families

Legal Reform to Safeguard Family Housing Rights

In a landmark move aimed at bolstering family stability and quality of life, Dubai has enacted a new Housing Dispute Settlement Law. Spearheaded by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the law is designed to address disputes between Emirati citizens and housing contractors or consultants, especially those involving construction delays and contract execution issues.

 

This law is not just a legal update—it is part of a larger, citizen-focused strategy that reflects Dubai’s long-term Social Agenda 33, prioritising happiness, sustainable development, and stable family living.

 

Clear Timelines for Dispute Resolution

The new law introduces a two-phase dispute resolution framework under the supervision of Dubai Courts:

 

• Mediation Phase: Disputes must first be submitted to a mediation panel within Dubai Courts' Centre for Amicable Settlement of Disputes. The panel is required to reach a settlement within 20 days, extendable by mutual agreement for another 20 days.

• Adjudication Phase: If mediation fails, the case is escalated to a special committee composed of one judge and two subject-matter experts. This committee must issue a decision within 30 days, extendable at the discretion of the committee head.

• Right to Appeal: Parties dissatisfied with the outcome can appeal to the Court of First Instance within 30 days of the committee's decision.

 

The law officially comes into effect on 1 January 2026, giving stakeholders time to adapt to the new framework.

 

Strengthening Dubai’s Judicial Infrastructure

Top officials have praised the law as a significant leap forward in enhancing Dubai’s judicial efficiency and public service delivery:

 

• HE Prof. Saif Ghanem Al Suwaidi, Director General of Dubai Courts, stated that the law “enhances swift justice and supports the 'Year of Community' initiative.”

• HE Prof. Abdullah Saif Al-Sabousi, Secretary-General of the Dubai Judicial Council, noted that the law provides an advanced model for alternative dispute resolution, with highly qualified specialists to ensure speed and quality in decisions.

 

This legislative reform reinforces the rule of law in the housing sector while helping avoid litigation bottlenecks that could delay home construction and jeopardise family wellbeing.

 

Backed by Broader Housing Initiatives

The law complements Dubai’s ongoing housing policies:

 

• Dh5.4 billion plan to construct 30,000 housing units for young Emirati families (announced in January)

• "Home First" initiative launched in March to streamline planning and reduce bureaucracy

• Institutional emphasis on risk mitigation, contractual clarity, and construction timeline enforcement

 

Together, these programmes ensure that Emirati families enjoy greater protection and confidence when investing in housing projects.

 

A New Era of Housing Confidence for Emiratis

According to HE Engineer Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, Director General of Dubai Municipality, the law is a “significant step” toward enhancing sustainability and satisfaction in housing. By introducing legal safeguards against disputes and delays, Dubai is cementing its position as a leader in citizen-first urban governance.

 

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