Reported: 1 November 2026
1 November 2026 , Dubai Municipality has updated the planning regulations for Al Satwa, expanding development options for residential and commercial uses based on plot location and characteristics, according to a statement by the Dubai Media Office.
The update introduces a new framework for plots along internal roads, which can now support a ground floor plus two floors of residential apartments, replacing a previous approach that focused mainly on attached villas.
For plots along external roads, the municipality says the revised rules provide greater flexibility and higher-density development options. These include commercial ground-floor space with two or three floors of residential apartments, subject to applicable planning requirements.
Dubai Municipality also outlined incentives for plot consolidation. Sites measuring 1,000 square metres or more, whether they already meet that threshold or are created through the consolidation of two or more plots (including the option to incorporate access lanes between them), may qualify for additional development potential.
Under the updated regulations, eligible plots could allow a ground floor plus up to eight residential apartment floors, with a stated floor area ratio (FAR) of up to 3.5. The municipality said the intention is to encourage consolidation into larger sites better suited to integrated development and more efficient land use.
The statement adds that coordination with relevant service authorities has been carried out as part of the review to assess infrastructure and traffic requirements. Dubai Municipality also said customers can apply for the service via the Build in Dubai platform.
Source: Dubai Media Office.