Dubai Key Tenant Rights on Rent, Eviction & Maintenance in 2025
The announcement underscores Dubai’s ongoing commitment to balancing investor confidence with tenant protection — a principle deeply embedded in the Emirate’s real-estate legislation.
Understanding the Foundation: Dubai’s Rental Protection Framework
Dubai’s tenancy system is governed by Law No. 26 of 2007, as amended by Law No. 33 of 2008, which regulates the relationship between landlords and tenants.
These laws were designed to protect both parties while ensuring transparency, fairness, and stability in the real-estate market.
“The law recognises the imbalance that often exists between landlords and tenants,” the judge noted, “and ensures that every tenant has access to due process before any action such as rent increase or eviction can take place.”
Rent Increase Rules: 90-Day Notice & the 20% Cap
One of the most frequent disputes before the RDC involves rent increases.
According to the judge, landlords are legally required to notify tenants at least 90 days before the contract renewal if they intend to raise the rent.
- Any increase must strictly follow the Dubai Rental Index.
- The maximum allowable rise is 20%, depending on market comparisons determined by the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA).
- If a tenant disagrees with the increase, they have the right to file a complaint through the RDC’s digital platform before the renewal date.
This measure prevents arbitrary or excessive rent hikes and ensures predictability for long-term residents.
Maintenance Obligations: Who Is Really Responsible?
Maintenance is another area that frequently sparks disputes.
Judge Al Suwaidi clarified that landlords are responsible for structural maintenance and for ensuring the property remains safe and habitable throughout the tenancy period.
Tenants, meanwhile, may be responsible only for minor, routine repairs — such as replacing light bulbs or fixing small fittings — unless otherwise agreed in writing.
Any clause that unfairly transfers the entire maintenance burden to the tenant may be considered invalid if it contradicts the law.
Eviction Rights & Conditions: No Tenant Can Be Removed Without Legal Grounds
Perhaps the most crucial message from the RDC concerns eviction.
A landlord cannot evict a tenant without valid legal justification and proper notice.
Under Dubai law:
- Eviction is permitted only under specific circumstances — such as non-payment of rent, property demolition, personal use by the landlord, or sale of the property.
- The landlord must serve a 12-month written notice, delivered via registered mail or Notary Public.
- Sudden or informal eviction attempts are unlawful, and tenants can seek immediate protection through the RDC.
“Tenant stability contributes to market confidence,” said Dr. Al Suwaidi. “Our role is to protect both residents’ rights and investors’ interests.”
RDC’s Digital Transformation: Filing Complaints Online
The Dubai Rental Disputes Centre has transformed its operations to meet the needs of a modern, tech-driven city.
Tenants and landlords can now:
- File complaints entirely online.
- Attend hearings remotely from within or outside the UAE.
- Upload supporting documents and track case progress digitally.
This system allows most disputes to be resolved within one to two weeks, reflecting Dubai’s commitment to efficient justice delivery.
Service Charges & Jointly Owned Properties
The judge also addressed service charges in jointly owned properties such as apartment towers and gated communities.
Once a project is completed and registered, unit owners must pay service charges approved by the Dubai Land Department (DLD) to ensure proper upkeep of shared facilities and infrastructure.
Failure to pay these charges can result in legal action, including suspension of access to certain services and financial penalties.
Tenant Awareness: Know Your Rights Before Signing
A recurring concern highlighted by the judge is tenant unawareness.
Many newcomers to Dubai sign lease agreements without fully understanding their rights and obligations.
To help tenants, the RDC provides:
- Educational campaigns,
- Advisory hotlines, and
- Digital guides available in multiple languages.
“Knowledge is protection,” Dr. Al Suwaidi emphasised. “Both tenants and landlords should review the law before signing or renewing any lease.”
Key Takeaways for Tenants & Landlords
| Issue | Tenant’s Right / Obligation | Landlord’s Duty / Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Rent Increase | Must be notified 90 days prior | Cannot exceed 20% (per RERA index) |
| Eviction | Requires 12-month notice & legal grounds | Must serve formal notice via Notary |
| Maintenance | Responsible for minor upkeep | Responsible for major repairs |
| Complaint Process | File online via RDC portal | Must comply with RDC orders |
Expert Insight: Why This Matters
Dubai’s rental market remains one of the most regulated in the region — offering clarity, fairness, and legal certainty.
Understanding these rules isn’t just useful for residents; it’s essential for property investors, real-estate agents, and legal practitioners navigating lease transactions or disputes.
By reinforcing the rights of both parties, Dubai strengthens its global reputation as a secure and transparent real-estate destination.
