Dubai Rental Laws: What Tenants and Landlords Need to Know

Thinking about renting in Dubai? The rules can feel confusing, but you don’t need a law degree to get by. Below is a straight‑forward guide that covers the basics—what you must do, what you’re allowed, and where most people slip up.

Key Rules for Tenants

First up, your lease. In Dubai every rental agreement should be registered with the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA). The registration fee is usually 4 % of the annual rent and the landlord normally pays it, but some contracts shift the cost to you—make sure it’s clear before you sign.

Security deposits are another big point. The standard amount is one month’s rent, but a landlord can ask for up to five months if you’re on a short‑term contract. The deposit must be returned within 30 days after you move out, provided you leave the property in the same condition as when you arrived.

Rent increases are tightly controlled. RERA releases an annual Rental Index that sets the maximum percentage a landlord can raise the rent. If the increase exceeds the index, you can negotiate or even file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Center.When it comes to termination, you have a right to end the tenancy early if the landlord fails to fix serious defects after a reasonable notice. Conversely, if you want out before the lease ends, expect to lose your deposit unless the contract includes a break‑clause.

Landlord Obligations & Common Pitfalls

Landlords must keep the property in a livable state. That means fixing plumbing, electricity, and structural issues within a reasonable time. Ignoring repair requests can lead to fines or even the forced return of your rent.

Another must‑know: short‑term rentals like Airbnb are now legal, but only if the property has a special permit from the Dubai Tourism Department. Running an unlicensed short‑term rental can result in hefty penalties, so always check the permit status before listing.

Eviction in Dubai follows a set process. A landlord can’t simply change the locks. They must obtain a court order or a decision from the Rental Dispute Center. If you receive a notice without proper paperwork, you can challenge it.

Lastly, keep all documents—signed lease, RERA registration receipt, and inventory check—safe and digital. They’re your proof if a dispute pops up, and they speed up resolution at the Rental Dispute Center.

By knowing these core points, you’ll avoid most headaches and make your Dubai rental experience smooth. Whether you’re a tenant protecting your rights or a landlord staying on the right side of the law, the key is to read the contract, register with RERA, and respect the Rental Index limits.