What Are My Rights as a Tenant in Dubai?

Dubai’s real estate sector is praised for its transparency and tenant-friendly regulations. However, knowing your rights and obligations is essential for navigating the rental market. To keep you informed and ready, this guide explores tenant protections under Dubai law and actual situations.

01- Fair Rent Assessment:

Tenants are entitled to fair rent based on the Dubai Land Department’s (DLD) Rental Index. Any increase a landlord suggests must be disclosed at least 90 days before the lease renewal and adhere to the index guidelines. If the landlord gives notice of a rent increase before renewal, tenants can review the Rental Index and seek advice from the Rental Disputes Center (RDC) if the proposed increase exceeds the allowed amount.

02- Defence Against Unplanned Eviction

A landlord cannot evict tenants before the lease term ends, such as if the tenant violates the terms. A 12-month written notice sent by registered mail or notary public is necessary for eviction after the lease term. In Dubai, unless you break certain conditions, your landlord cannot evict you before the end of the lease.

03- Property Maintenance and Repairs

Landlords are in charge of maintaining the property and making any significant repairs unless otherwise declared in the lease agreement.

04- Security Deposit Refund

After the tenancy, tenants are authorized to complete reimbursement of their security deposit unless there is no property damage beyond normal wear and tear. For instance, you can contest this at the RDC and get your entire deposit returned if your landlord takes a portion of it for repainting.

05- Legal Dispute Resolution

Tenants can contact the Rental Disputes Center (RDC), a legal division of the Dubai Land Department that effectively resolves conflicts between landlords and tenants, in the event of altercations or disagreements of any kind.

Dubai Laws Tenants Must Follow:

To keep a good reputation as a tenant, it’s vital to stick to these rules:

01- Timely Rent Payment

Tenants must pay rent on time to avoid fines or legal action.

Advice: To guarantee on-time transfers, automate payments, or set reminders.

02-Proper Use of the Property

Unauthorized use of the property may result in early eviction or fines. Tenants are only permitted to use the property for the purposes specified in the lease.

For example, you cannot use a residential property for commercial activities unless permitted.

03- Respect the Lease Terms

Tenants must abide by the terms of the lease, which include rules about subletting, alterations to the property, or keeping pets if restricted.

04- Maintain the Property

Tenants are accountable for minor maintenance, like replacing lightbulbs, plumbing or fixing electrical repairs. The cleanliness of the property is the tenant’s responsibility.

05-Vacating on Time

At the end of the lease term, tenants must leave the property unless an extension is agreed upon. Noncompliance may follow the legal action.

Tip: To prevent last-minute problems, start talking to your landlord about lease renewals 60 days prior to the lease’s expiration.

Important UAE Laws Protecting Tenants

• Law No. 26 of 2007 & Law No. 33 of 2008: Regulate tenancy contracts and dispute resolution.
• Executive Council Resolution No. 43 of 2013: Controls rental increases.
• Law No. 26 of 2013: Establishes the Rental Disputes Centre to handle disputes between landlords and tenants.

Final Thoughts!

In Dubai, being aware of your rights and obligations as a renter ensures a seamless renting experience. The robust legal system in Dubai is designed to safeguard you, regardless of whether you’re facing an unjust eviction or ambiguous maintenance terms.

Contact the Rental Disputes Centre (RDC) or the Dubai Land Department for individualised advice or legal assistance.

To learn about How to Use the RERA Rental Calculator read here.

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