RIYADH — New regulations governing shared housing for individuals in Saudi Arabia require such facilities to be located at least 300 meters away from schools and hospitals, while also prohibiting their establishment in areas where such activities are not permitted.

The regulations require shared housing facilities to comply with population densities specified in approved urban and local master plans. Entrances must be located on a main, arterial or local road with a minimum width of 20 meters, while facilities must maintain privacy and prevent direct views into neighboring properties.

Shared housing must also be connected to main roads and public transportation networks. Parking requirements include at least one space for every 40 residents, while bus parking must have sufficient capacity for 50 percent of the building’s residents. Dedicated parking spaces for people with disabilities must be provided near main entrances and elevators.

The Ministry of Municipalities and Housing recently approved health, safety and technical requirements for shared housing for individuals. Operators have been given a grace period of at least one year, or until their existing license expires, to address deficiencies and bring their facilities into compliance with the approved health, technical and safety standards.

Buildings and residential complexes that previously received permits for shared housing, private residential complexes or gated residential compounds have been exempted from the spatial planning requirements, provided they meet the required health, technical and safety standards.

The regulations divide shared housing for individuals into three categories according to capacity and the type of facilities and services provided.

The first category covers buildings consisting of one or more floors, with a total height of no more than 23 meters from ground level and containing multiple residential units.

The second category includes groups of independent residential buildings, such as apartment buildings and villas, enclosed by an external wall with security gates for entry and exit and supported by security guards.

The third category covers mobile cabins used temporarily at project sites to accommodate workers. These cabins can be moved from one location to another, and their operating licenses remain valid until the project is completed or for a maximum of one year, with the possibility of renewal.

Source:Saudi Gazette