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Dubai's crackdown ousts migrant workers from overcrowded homes

The government enforces a ban on illegal subletting, leaving many workers without housing.

July 28, 2025 at 04:15 AM

As Dubai cracks down on crowded jerry-rigged apartments, migrant workers have nowhere else to go

Authorities in Dubai target illegal subletting, leaving many migrant workers homeless.

Dubai's crackdown leaves migrant workers in a housing crisis

Dubai has intensified efforts to eliminate illegal subletting in overcrowded apartments, impacting numerous migrant workers. As authorities conduct inspections, many low-paid laborers are being evicted from their makeshift homes, where multiple men often share small spaces. The crackdown follows a deadly fire incident, raising safety concerns over partitioned living conditions. With rising rents and limited affordable housing options, these workers, who earn modest salaries, face an uncertain future. Many report feeling trapped, unable to find legal housing amid soaring costs in a city known for luxury living.

Key Takeaways

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Dubai's government is enforcing a ban on overcrowded housing.

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Many migrant workers face eviction without availability of alternative housing.

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Rents in Dubai have risen significantly, limiting options for low-income workers.

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Illegal subletting often meant sharing cramped spaces with many others.

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Safety concerns arose after tragic fire incidents; workers now fear further inspections.

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Workers rely on low wages, restricting their choices in a luxury-centric market.

"Now we don’t know what we’ll do."

Hesham, a migrant worker, expresses the uncertainty many feel after being evicted.

"They can tell you to leave without an option, without anywhere to go."

Hassan, another migrant, highlights the precarious situation of living under constant threat of eviction.

"I don’t know what they want us to do. Maybe they don’t want the majority of people that are here in Dubai."

Ebony's statement points to the disconnect between government policies and the needs of migrant workers.

"The crackdown will push up their housing costs, creating a lot of stress for people whose life situation is already precarious."

Steffen Hertog comments on the financial burden that increased housing costs impose on migrant workers.

This crackdown highlights a troubling issue in Dubai's housing market, where the demand for affordable living options is far outpaced by supply. With a growing population and high rental prices, migrant workers, who form the backbone of many industries, find themselves caught in a housing crisis. The government's focus on safety while neglecting the roots of affordability creates a paradox, pushing workers into more precarious living situations. Authorities must address both safety and housing affordability to create a sustainable solution that protects the most vulnerable.

Highlights

Living conditions force workers into corners of despair.
Migrant workers keep their heads low, hoping to avoid eviction.
Dubai's luxury hides a grim reality for many laborers.
When safety becomes a reason to push vulnerable people out.

Risk of housing crisis for migrant workers

The crackdown on overcrowded apartments amid rising rents poses serious risks for low-paid workers, leaving many without housing options. This situation raises concerns about social stability and potential unrest.

Addressing the needs of migrant workers is crucial for Dubai's social stability.

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dubai migrant workers housing crisis subletting labor rights politics labor housing

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