The recent housing cost adjustments by the Dubai municipal government have garnered significant attention and strong reactions from residents. Under the new policy, Dubai plans to levy a 5% monthly municipality service fee on all permanent property owners, aiming to standardize municipal service charges and collaborate with the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) to include these fees directly in monthly utility bills.

The announcement of this policy has drawn dissatisfaction and protests from permanent property owners, especially those who have already paid substantial developer maintenance or service fees. They argue that being asked to pay municipal fees again is unreasonable and constitutes double financial burden.

In response to the backlash, Dubai's municipal government has formed a dedicated committee led by Abdulrahman Al Saleh, Director-General of Dubai's Department of Finance, tasked with reviewing and addressing these complaints. The establishment of the committee underscores the government's commitment to addressing citizen feedback and promises to handle the issue fairly and transparently.

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While the municipal government emphasizes that these fees are necessary to support and maintain municipal services, including urban cleanliness, environmental protection, waste management, and the operation and upkeep of community facilities, many residents still question their justification. They believe that the fees already paid to developers should cover these services and should not incur additional charges from the government.

Hussain Nasser Lootah, Director-General of Dubai Municipality, insists that the municipality service fees do not overlap with developer fees and are essential funds required by the government to ensure the quality of life and sustainable development in Dubai. He stresses the long-standing legitimacy of this policy, citing its establishment under the 1962 Land Law aimed at ensuring Dubai's sustainable development and citizen welfare.

As a globally integrated and highly developed city, Dubai's stability and transparency in the real estate market are crucial for attracting foreign investment and maintaining market confidence. Therefore, adjustments to housing cost policies not only impact the daily lives of local residents but also directly affect long-term investor trust and the fairness of market operations.

With further implementation and adjustments to this policy, Dubai's municipal government will continue to seek a balance between public interest and citizen rights. They aim to support and safeguard Dubai's sustainable development and the quality of life for residents through the reasonable collection of municipality service fees.