Rental Laws Dubai: Your Quick Guide to Renting Right
If you’re about to sign a lease in Dubai, you need to know the rules that keep both tenants and landlords safe. The city’s rental laws are clear, but they can feel confusing if you’ve never dealt with them before. Below you’ll find the must‑know points, written in plain language, so you can avoid surprises and enjoy a smooth stay.
Basic Rules Every Renter Should Follow
First off, every rental agreement must be registered with Ejari – the official tenancy portal run by the Dubai Land Department. Registration locks in the contract details, protects your deposit, and makes it easier to settle disputes. You’ll usually pay a small fee (around AED 220) and get a registration certificate that both you and the landlord keep.
Security deposits are standard. Most landlords ask for one month’s rent, but they can request up to two months in some cases. The deposit stays with the landlord until you move out, then it’s returned after they inspect the property for damage. Make sure the contract spells out how and when they’ll give it back.
Notice periods matter too. If you want to leave early, you generally need to give 90 days’ written notice, unless the landlord agrees to a shorter term. Likewise, a landlord must give you at least 90 days before ending the lease, unless you break the contract first.
Rent increases are regulated. After the first year, a landlord can raise the rent, but only by a percentage set by the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA). The increase is based on the average market rates for similar units in the area. If you think the hike is unfair, you can file a complaint with RERA for mediation.
Subletting is another hot topic. In most cases, you need the landlord’s written permission to sublet your apartment. Doing it without permission can lead to eviction, so always get the go‑ahead in writing before you hand over the keys to anyone else.
How Landlords Can Stay Legal
Landlords also have a checklist. They must provide a written tenancy contract that includes rent amount, payment schedule, and any additional charges (like maintenance fees). The contract can’t contain clauses that violate UAE law, such as demanding extra fees that aren’t allowed.
Registering the lease with Ejari isn’t optional—it’s mandatory. Failure to register can result in fines and makes it harder for the landlord to enforce the contract in court.
When it comes to rent increases, landlords need to follow the RERA index. They can’t just hike the price arbitrarily. If they want a bigger increase, they must wait for the lease to expire and negotiate a new contract.
Evictions must follow a legal process. A landlord can’t lock you out or change the locks. They need a court order, and the tenant gets a chance to defend themselves. The typical reasons for eviction are non‑payment of rent or breach of contract terms.
Finally, property maintenance is the landlord’s responsibility. The apartment must meet health and safety standards, and any repairs that affect habitability should be fixed promptly. Ignoring maintenance can lead to penalties from the Dubai Municipality.
Understanding these rental laws Dubai means you can rent with confidence, avoid costly disputes, and enjoy your stay. Whether you’re a first‑time renter or a seasoned landlord, keeping the basics in mind will make the whole process a lot smoother.
