TryBeforeDubaiDubai tenancy law, explained
Dubai's tenancy law gives renters real protections — on rent increases, evictions and disputes. Here's what you're entitled to, in plain English.
Renting in Dubai is governed mainly by Law No. 26 of 2007 and Law No. 33 of 2008, with rent-increase caps set by Decree No. 43 of 2013. The system is overseen by RERA (the regulator) and the Rental Dispute Centre (RDC). Knowing the basics stops landlords and agents from overstepping.
Rent increases — the cap
A landlord can't raise your rent arbitrarily. Increases are tied to how far your current rent sits below the market average for similar properties, as measured by the **RERA rent calculator**:
| How far rent is below market average | Maximum increase |
|---|---|
| Up to 10% below | No increase allowed |
| 11–20% below | Up to 5% |
| 21–30% below | Up to 10% |
| 31–40% below | Up to 15% |
| More than 40% below | Up to 20% |
Per Decree 43 of 2013 — verify with the official RERA calculator before accepting an increase.
To change any term at renewal — including rent — the landlord must give you at least 90 days' written notice before the contract end date (unless you agree otherwise).
Eviction rules
During a contract, a landlord can only evict for specific legal reasons (e.g. non-payment after notice). At the end of a contract, eviction for reasons like the owner wanting to sell or move in generally requires 12 months' written notice served through a notary public or registered mail. A simple verbal request is not valid notice.
Deposits and maintenance
- Your security deposit is refundable, less the cost of any damage beyond fair wear and tear.
- Unless agreed otherwise, landlords are typically responsible for major maintenance; tenants for minor upkeep.
- Always register Ejari — without it you'll struggle to bring or defend a claim.
If there's a dispute
Disputes go to the Rental Dispute Centre (RDC) under the DLD. You file a case (a fee applies, typically a percentage of annual rent), and decisions are enforceable. Keep every document — contract, Ejari, receipts and written notices.
Laws and procedures change and individual cases vary. Confirm current rules with RERA/DLD or a qualified lawyer before acting.
Frequently asked
Only per the Decree 43 of 2013 scale, based on how far your rent is below market on the RERA calculator — from 0% up to a maximum of 20%, with 90 days' notice required.
End-of-contract eviction for reasons like sale or owner use generally requires 12 months' written notice via notary or registered mail.
Keep reading
The RERA rent calculator is the official tool that decides how much your rent can rise. Here's how to use it and read the result.
Read guideYour security deposit is refundable — but only if you protect it. Here's what's typical, what landlords can legitimately deduct, and how to get it back.
Read guideEjari is the official registration of your tenancy contract with Dubai's land authority. Without it, you can't get DEWA, visas or much else. Here's how it works.
Read guideSee how this applies to your move.
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