The new guidelines for implementation of the Strata Law for jointly owned properties, which came into force yesterday, will prevent developers from collecting any service charges unless they get clearance from the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (Rera), its CEO told Emirates Business. The guidelines also make it mandatory for developers who are constructing projects to submit their drawings to the Land Department's survey section for approval so that rights to communal areas are defined, said Marwan bin Ghalita.

Rera also has the right to temporarily administer a development in case of breach of rules by owners.

"The guidance will give investors more confidence. This will make the market more mature and transparent," added Ghalita.

Sultan bin Butti bin Mejren, Director-General of the Land Department, said: "The implications of releasing these guidelines are profound and far reaching for Dubai's property sector in general."