DMT Launches 'Your Home, Your Responsibility' Campaign To Improve Property Occupancy Compliance In Abu Dhabi

The Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) has initiated a new phase of its "Your Home, Your Responsibility" campaign. This initiative is part of DMT's ongoing efforts to improve residents' quality of life and foster community cohesion, aligning with the UAE Year of Community goals. The campaign focuses on preventing overcrowding in buildings by promoting adherence to property occupancy regulations in Abu Dhabi.

Dr. Saif Sultan Al Nasri, Acting Undersecretary at DMT, stated, "Through this awareness campaign, we aim to emphasise the importance that landlords and tenants adhere to the law regulating properties and residential units’ occupancy. This is to alleviate the adverse effects of property overoccupancy, while safeguarding the health and safety of the emirate's residents."

The campaign highlights the need for property owners and investors to comply with occupancy laws and support leasing standards. Companies are encouraged to provide approved housing for lower-income groups. This initiative coincides with increased inspections by DMT, which will enforce strict measures against violators and suspicious residences.

DMT is committed to enforcing these regulations through rigorous inspections targeting non-compliant properties. These efforts aim to identify violations and prevent overcrowding. Administrative penalties range from AED5,000 to AED500,000, with repeat offenses incurring fines up to AED1 million.

Enhancing tenant awareness is another key aspect of the campaign. Tenants are reminded of their responsibility to avoid violating occupancy regulations. This includes not renting units without proper contracts and ensuring rental properties are registered in the Tawtheeq system. Additionally, all vehicles must be registered in their respective Mawaqif zones.

DMT has also highlighted that it may implement additional measures if necessary. These could include suspending Tawtheeq contracts and accounts for landlords and investors who fail to comply with regulations. Property owners, real estate management companies, and residents are urged to adhere strictly to existing rules.

Long-term Housing Initiatives

DMT continues its commitment to enhancing community wellbeing through long-term affordable housing initiatives aimed at increasing Abu Dhabi's real estate market versatility. However, achieving these goals requires collaboration among all stakeholders, including entities and individuals.

Violators risk further fines and impounding of non-registered cars parked illegally in designated residential zones by Mawaqif. DMT reserves the right to take any additional actions deemed necessary to ensure compliance with property occupancy laws.

With inputs from WAM