The world’s most famous ‘seven-star’ hotel is officially getting some work done. For the first time since its doors swung open in 1999, the Burj Al Arab is undergoing a massive restoration. Don’t worry, though, the sail-shaped structure isn’t going anywhere. Jumeirah Group is just making sure this Dubai luxury property stays looking fresh for the next generation.

What’s the plan

This isn’t just a quick coat of paint. We’re talking about an 18-month phased restoration led by the renowned designer, Tristan Auer. If the name sounds familiar, it’s because he’s the mastermind behind the stunning Hotel de Crillon in Paris and a protege of the legendary Philippe Starck.

The hotel will, however, be running during the renovation process, which also includes modernising the interiors. 

Why is Burj famous

The Burj Al Arab is more than just a place to sleep, rest and enjoy the luxury comforts, it’s basically the face of Dubai. Here’s a quick refresher on why this building is iconic:

• The height: It towers at 321 meters on its own private island.
• The bling: The interiors are packed with marble, gold leaf, and Swarovski crystals.
• The icon status: From helipad tennis matches with Roger Federer to its massive 450kg crystal chandelier, it put Dubai on the luxury map 27 years ago.

Preserving the icon

As Dubai grows, the city is shifting its focus toward preserving its modern icons. By giving the Burj Al Arab a thoughtful facelift now, they’re ensuring that the ‘Sail of Dubai’ remains the ultimate symbol of global luxury without losing the original character that made it famous in the first place.

According to the Jumeirah Group, the renovation is aimed at preserving one of the emirate’s most famous symbols for future generations.

Abu Dhabi has introduced a new set of regulations through the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) to strengthen oversight of the property market and protect investor interests. Here’s a simple breakdown of what’s changing and why it matters.

What are these new decisions about?

The rules are part of updates to the emirate’s real estate law and aim to:

• Improve transparency
• Protect buyers’ money
• Reduce disputes
• Create a more investor-friendly market

They are being implemented with oversight from the Abu Dhabi Real Estate Centre.

Stricter rules for escrow accounts

Developers often use escrow accounts to fund construction.

What’s new?

• Withdrawals before 20% project completion are now tightly regulated
• Developers must provide bank guarantees and approved cost plans

Why it matters:
This ensures buyers’ money is not misused and projects stay financially secure.

Clearer rules for jointly owned properties

This applies to buildings, communities, and shared facilities.

What’s new?

• Defined roles for owners, developers, and property managers
• Standardised management of common areas

Why it matters:
Better maintenance, fewer disputes, and clearer accountability.

Owners’ committees get a unified framework

Owners’ committees help manage residential communities.

What’s new?

• Standard bylaws across Abu Dhabi
• Clear rules on how committees are formed and operate

Why it matters:
More organised community management and stronger owner participation.

Compensation and refunds made clearer

Covers situations where:

• Buyers default on payments
• Projects are cancelled and units resold

What’s new?

• Defined compensation percentages for developers
• Clear timelines and procedures for buyer refunds

Why it matters:
Creates a fair balance between developers and buyers while speeding up dispute resolution.

These changes aim to:

• Boost investor confidence
• Strengthen market transparency
• Align Abu Dhabi with global real estate standards

In short, the new framework is designed to make the property market safer, clearer, and more efficient for everyone involved, from first-time buyers to large-scale investors.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has issued Law No. (4) of 2026 to regulate the management and occupancy of shared housing in Dubai.

The new law applies across Dubai’s private development zones and free zones and sets clear rules for property owners, authorised operators, and tenants involved in shared housing arrangements.

What the law aims to do

The legislation is designed to organise shared housing in the emirate and address issues such as overcrowding and informal accommodation. The law aims to:

• Protect the rights of property owners and residents
• Ensure safe and healthy living conditions
• Prevent overcrowding and illegal housing practices
• Address building and land-use violations
• Promote fair rental practices
• Support the stability and appearance of Dubai’s real estate market

Permit required for shared housing

Under the law, no individual or entity may allocate a property unit for shared housing without obtaining an official permit.

Permits will be issued and renewed according to rules set by Dubai Municipality, in coordination with Dubai Land Department and other authorities.

Properties must meet specific technical and safety requirements, including:

• Maximum occupancy limits
• Minimum space per resident
• Adequate shared facilities
• Compliance with building, health, fire, sanitation, security, and electrical standards

Permit validity and renewal

• Permits are valid for one year and may be renewed for similar periods.
• At the owner’s request, a two-year permit may be issued.
• Renewal applications must be submitted at least 30 days before expiry.

Leasing rules

The law states that only the property owner or an authorised establishment can lease a shared housing unit.

Tenants or other parties are not allowed to sublease any part of the unit, ensuring better oversight and compliance with regulations.

Heavy fines for violations

Violating the law can result in fines ranging from Dh500 to Dh500,000.

If the same violation is repeated within one year, the penalty will be doubled, up to a maximum of AED1 million.

Authorities may also impose additional measures, including:

• Suspension of activity for up to six months
• Cancellation of the permit
• Revocation of the commercial licence
• Disconnection of public utilities
• Eviction orders for non-compliant units

Oversight and implementation

Dubai Municipality will set detailed conditions for shared housing, including maximum occupancy levels, required space per resident, and necessary facilities. The authority will also determine which areas in Dubai are permitted for shared housing, based on urban planning, population density, infrastructure capacity, and neighbourhood characteristics.

The law applies to companies licensed to manage or lease properties on behalf of owners, including those operating in special development zones and free zones. However, collective labour accommodation is excluded from its scope.

When the law takes effect

The law will come into force 180 days after its publication in the Official Gazette, and any conflicting provisions in other legislation will be annulled.