Latest news with #Dh1
Gulf Insider
2 days ago
- Business
- Gulf Insider
Illegal Partitioned Rooms, Bed Spaces In Dubai: Safety Risks And The Search For Sustainable Housing Solutions
Crackdown on illegal partitioned rooms and bed spaces is underway, targeting serious safety risks—from fire hazards to blocked emergency exits—in crowded residential buildings, particularly in areas like Deira. Recently, Dubai Municipality, alongside the Dubai Land Department and Civil Defense, has launched intensified inspections across key residential hotspots like Deira, Al Riqqa, Satwa, Al Barsha, and Al Raffa. Their target? Illegal partitioned rooms and bed spaces that pose serious safety risks—from fire hazards to blocked emergency exits—in crowded residential buildings. Partitioned rooms might seem like a quick fix for affordable housing, especially for lower-income residents, but in Dubai, they're a big no-no without official approval. Authorities are taking a firm stand against these unauthorized modifications, emphasizing that safety cannot be compromised for convenience or cost savings. Scroll through Facebook ads for just a few minutes, and you'll find a shadow housing market thriving in plain sight. Partitioned rooms are being rented out for as much as Dh1,400 a month—often just a slice of someone else's living space, separated by thin walls or curtains. In Satwa, a loft bed squeezed above a cupboard in a makeshift room can go for Dh600. It's barely enough space to stand, let alone live. In Deira, partitions can be found for Dh650, sometimes higher if they come 'all in'—meaning free Wi-Fi, DEWA, and maybe a balcony shared with several others. For those chasing affordability, a 'fully closed' partition can go as low as Dh800 in some areas, or Dh700 for a single-person slot. The price varies by location and perks, but the bottom line remains: these setups are often cramped, poorly ventilated, and unregulated. Yet for many low-income workers, these hidden corners of the city are the only option. The question is—how long can this patchwork system go on before safety, dignity, and affordability collide? But the problem isn't confined to old Dubai's jam-packed neighborhoods—it's creeping into the city's most upscale corners. Take Dubai Marina's Jumeirah Beach Residences, for example. A British tenant, living in Dubai since 2008, who requested anonymity, blew the whistle on a four-bedroom apartment in Sadaf illegally converted into a seven-bedroom bunker, crammed with up to 60 people sleeping in bunk beds. Some are renting beds at a bargain Dh100 each, openly advertised on Facebook as a 'holiday home' — without a single permit. This isn't just rule-breaking; it's blatant exploitation and a disaster looming on the horizon. With no proper air conditioning, zero privacy, and fire exits blocked by makeshift bedrooms in utility spaces, the risk isn't hypothetical—it's a disaster waiting to happen. The consequences could be catastrophic. As Dubai cracks down on illegal partitions, the conversation around affordable and safe housing for low-income workers is reaching a boiling point. The challenge goes beyond enforcement—it calls for bold, creative solutions that balance dignity, safety, and economic realities. Some experts suggest government-backed subsidized housing schemes tailored for workers earning less than Dh2,000 a month. Imagine safe, regulated homes within the city that don't cost a fortune but meet strict safety standards—a real alternative to cramped, unsafe rooms. Developers could also play a key role – Builders can include affordable, purpose-built accommodations in their projects, creating a long-term fix rather than a quick patch. Meanwhile, flexible shared housing models—legal co-living spaces with privacy and safety—could offer a modern, community-driven solution that respects workers' needs and budgets. For those who can't afford Dubai rents, relocating to more affordable cities on the outskirts is an option—but the long commute poses a significant challenge. Some have proposed transport subsidies or dedicated shuttle services to ease the burden on workers' time and finances. As Dubai continues to grow and transform, safe and affordable housing for its workforce is no longer optional—it's urgent. The crackdown on illegal partitions exposes a deeper crisis that needs real solutions. With smart enforcement, bold innovation, and public awareness, Dubai can build safe, inclusive, dignified homes for everyone who powers the city's success.
Al Etihad
4 days ago
- Business
- Al Etihad
‘One second can make a difference': How mandatory Hassantuk fire alarm enhances Abu Dhabi's life-saving emergency response
25 June 2025 01:32 MAYS IBRAHIM (ABU DHABI)The installation of the 'Hassantuk' wireless fire safety system is mandatory for all residential homes in Abu Dhabi, the emirate's Civil Defence Authority confirmed during a press conference on Colonel Hassan Al-Kathiri of the Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority (ADCDA) said homeowners who fail to comply will face penalties. A first warning will be issued to non-compliant residents, followed by a fine of Dh1,000 if the system is not installed within the prescribed grace to perform regular maintenance on the system is also considered a violation that comes with a Dh500 penalty after an official warning.'The primary goal of Hassantuk is to achieve a response faster than the danger,' Lt. Colonel Al-Kathiri said. 'One second can make a difference in saving lives. Hassantuk can alert you to danger in fractions of a second, enabling swift evacuation before firefighting and rescue teams arrive.'Hassantuk, introduced in 2018 and powered by Etisalat (e&), is part of a nationwide initiative by the Ministry of Interior, aiming to improve emergency response and make the UAE one of the safest countries 24/7 fire alarm system is integrated with Civil Defence Command Centres across all emirates, allowing immediate alerts and faster dispatch of emergency has become a core part of the building licensing process, according to Hussein Al-Harthy, Acting Director of Construction Business Regulation.'The Hassantuk system must be installed after the building permit is issued but before the completion certificate and occupancy. From day one, the system must be operational,' Al-Harthy Ibrahim Al-Ahmad, CEO of Government and VIP Sector, Etisalat UAE (e&), emphasised the company's commitment to supporting Abu Dhabi's strategic vision of becoming the world's smartest and safest emirate.'The system doesn't just detect fire, it pinpoints its exact location within the house, enabling more efficient emergency response,' he initiative is supported by ADCDA's strategic partners in the emirate, including the Department of Municipalities and Transport, the Abu Dhabi Social Support Authority (ADSSA), and Etisalat (e&).Qasim Al Hashmi, Executive Director of Beneficiary Affairs at the ADSSA, stressed that raising public awareness of fire risks and preventive methods is a crucial part of the authorities' role. How to Sign Up for HassantukSubscriptions for the service can be completed through the Hassantuk platform, after which Etisalat employees visit one's home to assess the number of devices required and handle the full installation of the system, Al-Ahmad explained. According to the Ministry of Interior's website, the 12-month subscription plan costs Dh416.85 with an additional Dh1,000 upfront installation charge. The 24-month plan is priced at Dh233.10 with the same Dh1,000 upfront fee. Alternatively, residents can opt for a one-time payment of Dh5,903.10, which includes VAT. Source: Aletihad - Abu Dhabi
Al Etihad
5 days ago
- Al Etihad
Surge in UAE staycations as residents postpone overseas holidays amid global travel woes
24 June 2025 00:15 MAYS IBRAHIM (ABU DHABI)With geopolitical tensions disrupting global air traffic, many UAE residents are putting travel plans on hold and turning to domestic staycations as a safer, more convenient is among those shelving overseas holiday plans. She had initially considered a summer getaway to Europe with friends but ultimately decided against it due to the risk of flight cancellations. Instead, the 22-year-old Emirati and her friends - group of 10 - are booking a private villa with a pool in Abu Dhabi's Al Bahya area. 'There are still so many ways to enjoy summer here,' she told Aletihad . 'A day at a villa can cost between Dh700 and Dh1,000, and over Dh1,500 if we're staying overnight, but it's worth it for the privacy and peace of mind.' Kawthar also enjoys horse-riding on the beach or relaxing at Kai Beach on their women-only Mahtw, a ticketing staff member at a UAE-based travel agency, said there had been a noticeable uptick in domestic vacation bookings this summer. 'Because of the current situation, there's been about a 50% increase in demand for local getaways compared to last year,' he told Aletihad . 'Resorts in Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, and parts of the Western Region are especially popular. These areas offer resort-style hotels.'Global travel uncertainties, including visa delays and unexpected flight cancellations, have contributed to the trend, Mahtw said.'We're seeing a lot of cancellations,' he said. 'Many travellers are choosing to pause their international plans. If a flight gets cancelled, we process the refund, no problem. But many are choosing to avoid that stress entirely.'Some - like Hisham, a newlywed UAE resident - are using this time to reconnect with loved ones and unwind locally. 'My wife and I were planning to go to Georgia this summer, but with all the flight disruptions, we decided on a weekend resort in Fujairah instead,' he told Aletihad . 'It's peaceful and quiet.' Sarah Al Junaibi, another travel agent, said many UAE residents with booked international trips were hoping the situation would calm down by July or August. 'But we're seeing a definite rise in bookings for staycations and local experiences, especially for families,' she told Aletihad . For Egyptian expat Mariam, a mother of two, this summer was meant to be their first family vacation abroad since relocating to the UAE earlier this year. 'We had planned to visit Turkey in late July, but with all the uncertainty, we're staying put,' she said. 'It's our first summer here, and there's still so much to explore indoors anyway, like museums and aquariums.'
Mid East Info
13-06-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Emirates Properties launches Dh350 million Azha Millennium Residences as Dubai's branded home supply grows - Middle East Business News and Information
The launch of Azha Millennium Residences embodies Dubai's strategic vision to raise the real estate market value to Dh1 trillion by 2033 Under the patronage of HH Sheikh Rashid bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Chairman of the Municipality and Planning Department in Ajman, Emirates Properties Group launched Azha Millennium Residences, an ultra-luxury branded mixed-use development that will be developed at the heart of Jumeirah Village Triangle (JVT), Dubai. Being developed by Emirates Properties Group, one of the large property developers in the UAE, the Dh350 million Azha Millennium Residences will deliver an exquisite collection of 196 Millennium Hotels & Resorts-branded apartments and curated retail spaces upon completion in Q4 2027. With its futuristic design, integrated living experience, and sustainable infrastructure, Azha Millennium Residences harbours Dubai's ambitious goal to propel the real estate market value to Dh1 trillion by 2033 – a key indicator of the Dubai Real Estate Sector Strategy 2033. Rising 30 storeys high, it is the latest hotel-branded development to adorn Dubai's towering skyline, reaffirming the city's appeal to the global affluent. The emirate recorded transactions of more than 13,000 branded units in 2024, a 43 per cent increase from 2023, according to market intelligence and property consultancy Global Branded Residences (GBR). Currently boasting 43,000 homes across 132 high-end developments in its inventory, Dubai eyes to increase its stock by more than double over the next five years. 'Azha Millennium Residences is a unique addition to Dubai's striking portfolio of branded homes. The project is an embodiment of aesthetics, sophistication, and convenience, further enhancing Dubai's appeal as an ideal residential destination for luxury lovers,' Sheikh Rashid bin Humaid Al Nuaimi said. Azha Millennium Residences features 196 units, including 56 studios, 84 one-bedroom, and 56 two-bedroom apartments, meticulously designed for comfort, elegance, and smart living. With prices starting from Dh629,000, studios span an area from 375 square feet onwards while sizes of one- and two-bedroom units span up to 979 square feet and 1,746 square feet, respectively. Emirates Properties Group is offering an attractive and flexible payment plan: 10 percent down payment, 30 percent during construction, 10 percent upon handover, and 50 percent in three years post-handover, allowing seamless purchases. The surge of wealthy home-buyers in Dubai is central to the growth of branded homes. The market's appeal lies in Dubai's multi-cultural lifestyle, safety, accessibility, economic resilience, and favourable position on the world map. Dubai now ranks among the top 20 wealthiest cities, hosting 81,200 millionaires, including 237 centi-millionaires and 20 billionaires. The number of wealthy people with a net worth exceeding US$100 million in Dubai is expected to grow two-fold by 2034, according to the 'World's Wealthiest Cities Report 2024' published by Henley & Partners in collaboration with New World Wealth. Properties like Azha Millennium Residences will help maintain the supply level in the long run as the market foresees rising demand due to the influx of High-Net-Worth-Individuals (HNWIs) by the next decade. Mohammed R. Hegazi, Managing Director of Emirates Properties Group, said, 'Azha's launch takes place at a time when Dubai is receiving a large number of super-wealthy settlers. Each residence is masterfully crafted to embody luxury living at its core. Millennium Hotels and Resorts adds pivotal value to homes, promising an unmatched experience with its signature hospitality services. 'This will widen the choice of ultra-luxury properties and help global ultra-high networth individuals to live in Dubai.' Azha Millennium Residences features a suite of world-class amenities that resonate with the opulent lifestyle of its residents. Ground level facilities include a swimming pool, BBQ area, lush garden, play areas, and a café lounge. On the rooftop, residents can access a health club, a pool offering scenic views of JVT, a lounge, indoor cinema, and entertainment room. Moreover, residents can experience hotel-style living with Millennium's premium hospitality services like concierge, round-the-clock security, in-room dining, housekeeping, valet parking, and additional wellness facilities. More than 300 designated parking slots across four podiums are available. Strategically located in Jumeirah Village Triangle, Azha Millennium Residences is in close proximity to some of Dubai's iconic landmarks, including Miracle Garden, Mall of the Emirates, Dubai Autodrome, Palm Jumeirah, and Bluewaters Island. Emirates Properties Group is a sustained player in UAE's residential real estate contributing a number of attractive projects to the country's diverse landscape. It is a key developer in Ajman where its portfolio includes a mix of low-rise residences, tall towers, and vibrant villa communities. It has expanded its footprint in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, with Azha Millennium Residences being its third launch in Dubai. About Emirates Properties Group: Emirates Properties Group is a leading real estate developer committed to delivering high-quality, design-led projects that enrich urban life and foster lasting value for investors, residents, and communities across the UAE.
Time of India
11-06-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Are you an influencer or filmmaker in Dubai? Here's how much you need to pay for a media licence
Professionals across all media sectors in Dubai now face mandatory licensing with clearly defined fees under the new law. (Representational image) The UAE has officially released a detailed fee structure for media-related licences under Cabinet Decision No. (41) of 2025, just days after implementing a sweeping new media law that introduces fines of up to AED 1 million (USD 272,000) for violations such as spreading fake news or insulting religious beliefs. The updated decision outlines mandatory licensing costs for a wide range of professionals and entities operating in the country's media landscape, including influencers, digital creators, film distributors, journalists, publishers, event organisers, and video game producers. The move is part of a broader effort to formalise, regulate, and ensure accountability in the UAE's growing media sector while promoting transparency and compliance. These licences are now legally required to operate media services or distribute content in the UAE, with specific categories and renewal fees clearly specified. Digital Creators and Influencers Influencer permit (for paid content): Dh1,000 (USD 272) annually Renewal: Dh1,000 (USD 272) Visitor influencer permit: Dh500 (USD 136) for every 3 months Digital platform/media outlet licence (e.g., podcast, blog, streaming): Dh5,000 (USD 1,360) Renewal: Dh5,000 (USD 1,360) Press, Journalism, and Foreign Media Sponsor a foreign journalist not registered in the country: Dh6,000 (USD 1,632) per sponsorship Temporary media coverage permit: Dh300 (USD 82) Foreign journalist or reporter not registered in the country licence: Dh500 (USD 136) Renewal: Dh500 (USD 136) Cinema and Film Production Open a cinema (6+ screens): Dh100,000 (USD 27,200) initial, Dh50,000 (USD 13,600) annual renewal Open a cinema (up to 5 screens): Dh60,000 (USD 16,320) initial, Dh30,000 (USD 8,160) annual renewal Film distributor licence (animation, documentary, cartoon): Dh35,000 (USD 9,520) initial, Dh18,000 (USD 4,896) renewal Film production licence (same genres): Dh18,000 (USD 4,896) initial, Dh8,000 (USD 2,176) renewal Screening a film in the UAE: Dh1,000 (USD 272) per film Screening a trailer: Dh500 (USD 136) Poster display approval: Dh500 (USD 136) Ticket sales permit: Dh500 (USD 136) Age classification: Dh500 (USD 136) Urgent classification service: Dh6,000 (USD 1,632) Commercial content shown inside cinemas: Dh1,000 (USD 272) Licence to design and produce advertising content: Dh5,000 (USD 1,360) Renewal: Dh2,500 (USD 680) Events and Single-Use Permits Screening a film or event for 1 day (e.g., football match): Dh500 (USD 136) Self-monitoring digital platform permit: Dh2,000 (USD 544) Video Games and Entertainment Platforms Video game sales licence: Dh10,000 (USD 2,720) Game production licence: Dh4,000 (USD 1,088) Renewal: Dh2,000 (USD 544) Game rental (via platform): Dh5,000 (USD 1,360) annually Artistic Production and Services Audio-visual production studio licence: Dh15,000 (USD 4,080) Renewal: Dh8,000 (USD 2,176) Theatre or artistic performance licence: Dh10,000 (USD 2,720) Renewal: Dh6,000 (USD 1,632) Licence to design, implement, and install advertising billboards: Dh10,000 (USD 2,720) Renewal: Dh5,000 (USD 1,360) Books, Printing , and Publishing Licence to practice printing-related businesses: Dh10,000 (USD 2,720) Annual renewal: Dh5,000 (USD 1,360) Licence to establish a printing press: Dh25,000 (USD 6,800) Annual renewal: Dh15,000 (USD 4,080) Licence to publish a daily newspaper: Dh100,000 (USD 27,200) Renewal: Dh50,000 (USD 13,600) Reprint foreign daily newspapers: Dh50,000 (USD 13,600) Foreign media office licence: Dh3,000 (USD 816) Sell/distribute more than 10 copies of foreign books: Printed: Dh15 (USD 4) per book Digital: Dh10 (USD 2.72) per e-book Library or bookstore licence: Dh3,500 (USD 952) Licence Changes, Cancellations, and Modifications Cancel licence: Dh200 (USD 54) Transfer of ownership: Dh100 (USD 27) Request to amend media activity licence data: Free Also read: Posting Without Official License Could Cost Dh1 Million in UAE The fee structure under Cabinet Decision No. (41) of 2025 is now legally binding and applies to all individuals and entities engaging in media activities within the UAE. Licences are required for operating platforms, producing or distributing content, and hosting media-related events. The decision also complements the recently enacted media law, which imposes penalties of up to Dh1 million (USD 272,000) for violations, including the spread of misinformation and offensive content.
