Dubai Rental Law — Tenants & Landlords

Dubai's residential and commercial leases are governed by Law No. 26 of 2007 (as amended by Law 33/2008) and Decree 43/2013 on rent increases. Every lease must be registered through Ejari.

1. Allowable Rent Increases — Decree 43/2013

Increases are capped based on how far the current rent sits below the RERA Rent Index:

• Up to 10% below market: no increase permitted.
• 11–20% below: up to 5% increase.
• 21–30% below: up to 10% increase.
• 31–40% below: up to 15% increase.
• More than 40% below: up to 20% increase.

2. Notice of Renewal or Change

Any change to rent or other terms must be served at least 90 days before contract expiry. Without timely notice, the lease renews on the same terms.

3. Eviction (Article 25)

A landlord may evict during the contract term only for specific causes (non-payment after 30-day notice, illegal use, sublet without consent, etc.). Eviction at end of term requires a registered notarized notice served 12 months in advance and is only allowed if the landlord wants to sell, use the property personally, or carry out major renovations.

4. Security Deposit

Typically 5% of annual rent (unfurnished) or 10% (furnished). The landlord must return it at the end of the term less the cost of any tenant-caused damage.

5. Disputes — RDC

The Rental Disputes Centre (RDC) at Dubai Land Department is the exclusive forum. Filing fee is 3.5% of annual rent (min AED 500, max AED 20,000). Most cases are decided within 30–45 days.