Dubai Apartments Overcrowded: Tenants Face Daily Struggles

Overcrowding and Noise: Life Becomes Tough in Some Dubai Buildings

In recent years, certain Dubai residential buildings have become so overcrowded that the quality of life for long-time tenants has significantly diminished. The issue particularly impacts the older, well-located, spacious apartments in the Deira district, where long-term residents and families face serious challenges due to bed-space sharing practices.

Long-time Residents, New Problems

Many who have lived in the same building for decades reported that the environment began to change in the post-COVID-19 era. Apartments were subdivided, with some accommodating as many as 30 to 35 people in a single unit. These divided spaces are often rented out by real estate agents with the owners' knowledge—and unfortunately, their consent—since this practice allows for greater revenue.

Daily Discomforts

According to residents, the impact of overcrowding can be felt every day. Elevators are constantly overloaded—in some cases, it can take 10 to 15 minutes just to reach the correct floor. The building was not originally designed to accommodate so many residents, so the utilities are also struggling to handle the load.

The overcrowding is also apparent in common areas. Trash piles up in stairwells, the smell of cigarette smoke and alcohol lingers in the corridors, and loud arguments are common. Many complain that their children can't sleep peacefully due to nighttime noise and that even their guests are bothered by the environment.

Emotional Attachment vs. Relocation Difficulties

Despite deteriorated conditions, many long-term renters are reluctant to leave their homes. The location is central, everything is easily accessible, and the decades spent there have fostered a strong emotional attachment. However, the renters believe authorities must regulate the number of occupants per apartment and act against illegal sharing practices.

Why Is This Practice Spreading?

The root cause is often financial. The market rent for a two-bedroom apartment is typically around 6,000 dirhams, while illegal sharing can generate up to 10,000 dirhams for the owner or intermediary. Renting out unused rooms for bed-space offers a quick and easy revenue stream, particularly for those less concerned about the consequences.

Residents' Hopes

Many have repeatedly complained to the building management, but no substantial changes have followed. One building, for example, issues three access cards per apartment to limit flow—but this also complicates guest entry, creating further inconvenience.

Residents would welcome detailed inspections and stricter regulations on shared accommodations by authorities. The aim is not necessarily punishment but to make the shared living space more livable and to restore the previously peaceful environment.

(This article is sourced from residents' accounts.)