Real estate guide
Tenant Rights in Dubai: A Practical Guide
A practical guide to tenant rights in Dubai: Ejari, deposits, maintenance, rent increases, eviction notice periods and resolving disputes.
Dubai’s rental laws give tenants clear protections, from how much the rent can rise to how much notice a landlord must give before eviction. Knowing them helps you rent with confidence.
A registered tenancy contract
Every tenancy should be registered with Ejari, the Dubai Land Department’s tenancy registration system. Registration protects both parties, is needed to connect DEWA and to sponsor family visas, and is required if you ever need to take a case to the Rental Dispute Settlement Centre. Read more in our guide to Ejari in Dubai.
Your key rights as a tenant
- To receive the property in good condition and suitable for use
- To have major maintenance and repairs carried out by the landlord, unless the contract says otherwise
- To rent increases only within the limits of the RERA rental index, with 90 days’ notice
- To peaceful enjoyment of the property without unnecessary interference
- To the return of the security deposit at the end of the tenancy, less any justified deductions
- To challenge unfair decisions at the Rental Dispute Settlement Centre
Eviction rules
A landlord can only ask a tenant to leave for reasons set out in the law. During the contract these include non-payment of rent, subletting without consent, illegal use or serious damage. When the contract ends, a landlord who wants the property back to live in, for a first-degree relative, to sell, or for major renovation or demolition, must give 12 months’ written notice through a notary public or registered mail.
Your responsibilities
- Pay the rent on time, usually by post-dated cheques
- Use the property for residential purposes only and follow building rules
- Do not sublet without the landlord’s written consent
- Carry out minor maintenance if agreed in the contract
- Return the property in the condition you received it, allowing for normal wear and tear
Protect yourself from the start
Take dated photos at move-in, make sure all agreements are written into the contract or an addendum, keep copies of cheques and receipts, and only deal with RERA-registered brokers. Our renting guide walks you through the full process, and our guide to rent increases explains the index in detail.
This guide is general information, not legal or financial advice. Fees, thresholds and regulations change, so please confirm current requirements with our team or the relevant authority before you commit.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
How much notice does a landlord need to give to evict a tenant in Dubai?
For eviction at the end of the contract for reasons such as sale or own use, 12 months’ notice through a notary public or registered mail.
Who pays for maintenance in a Dubai rental?
Usually the landlord pays for major maintenance and the tenant for minor repairs, but the contract can set this out differently.
How much is the security deposit in Dubai?
Commonly 5% of the annual rent for unfurnished homes and 10% for furnished homes.
Can a tenant break a lease early in Dubai?
Only as allowed by the contract. Many contracts include an early termination clause with a penalty, often one or two months’ rent.
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