The Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) governs the landlord-tenant relationship in Dubai through a set of well-defined laws aimed at creating transparency, fairness, and balance in the rental market. Knowing your rights and obligations under this legal framework is essential—whether you’re a landlord or a tenant.
Established under Decree No. (26) of 2013, the RDSC offers an efficient, impartial forum for resolving rental disputes. It is the authoritative body for handling rent-related conflicts between landlords and tenants in Dubai.
All rental contracts must be in writing and registered through Ejari, a system overseen by RERA. The Ejari contract outlines all key terms—rent amount, payment schedule, duration, and mutual obligations—making it legally binding and enforceable.
Per Decree No. (43) of 2013, rent increases are subject to specific limits:
Rent increases are not allowed within the first two years of a new contract.
Any planned increase must be communicated at least 90 days before renewal.
The maximum rent increase is 20%, depending on how the current rent compares to market rates.
A security deposit of up to 5% of the annual rent (for residential units) may be collected.
The landlord must return the deposit at the end of the lease, less deductions for damages beyond normal wear and tear.
Landlords are responsible for structural repairs and ensuring the property is habitable.
Tenants must take care of routine maintenance and report any damages promptly.
According to Article 14, any changes to the rental contract (rent amount, term, conditions) must be communicated 90 days before contract expiration.
Per Article 6, if the tenant remains in the property post-expiration and the landlord does not object, the lease is automatically renewed under the same terms for one year or the same original duration, whichever is shorter.
Article 28 ensures that a change in property ownership does not affect the validity of the tenant’s lease. The new owner must honor existing tenancy agreements.
A landlord may evict a tenant during the lease term under the following conditions:
Non-payment of rent within 30 days of written notice.
Unauthorized subletting.
Illegal or immoral use of property.
Endangerment or damage to the property.
Use of property for non-agreed purposes.
Breach of contract or laws, not rectified within 30 days.
Prolonged closure of commercial premises (30 consecutive or 90 non-consecutive days).
Government requisition or demolition for urban planning.
A landlord may request eviction after the contract ends if:
Major renovations are required.
The property is being sold.
The landlord or first-degree relatives will occupy the unit.
In these cases, 12 months’ written notice via registered mail or notary public is required.
Article 7: Rental agreements cannot be unilaterally terminated before expiry without mutual consent.
Article 27: If the tenant or landlord passes away, the contract continues with legal heirs unless they choose to terminate it with 30 days’ notice.
Early termination depends on specific clauses in the contract. If none exist, the landlord may request compensation.
As per Law No. (33) of 2008, tenants are not legally required to provide notice at the end of a lease unless stated in the contract.
Failure to provide notice (if required by the contract) may lead to liability for damages.
The landlord must return the security deposit upon vacancy, less any applicable deductions.
0% increase: If current rent is <10% below average market rent.
5% increase: If 11–20% below average.
10% increase: If 21–30% below.
15% increase: If 31–40% below.
20% increase: If >40% below.
Article 19: Pay rent on time; seek approval for modifications.
Article 21: Return the property in original condition, minus normal wear.
Article 22: Pay all agreed-upon government charges.
Article 23: Cannot remove modifications unless contract permits.
Article 15: Ensure the property is fit for use.
Article 16: Handle major repairs and defects.
Article 17: Avoid making changes that affect usability.
Article 18: Provide any necessary permits for tenant alterations.
Law No. (26) of 2007 – Governs landlord-tenant relations.
Law No. (33) of 2008 – Amendments to Law 26.
Decree No. (26) of 2013 – Establishes RDSC.
Decree No. (43) of 2013 – Controls rent increases.
Understanding and complying with Dubai’s tenancy laws is crucial for both landlords and tenants. At AL ITEZAN Advocates and Legal Consultants, we offer expert guidance and representation in rental disputes, evictions, and contract negotiations.
📞 Book your free 30-minute legal consultation today to ensure your rights are protected.
