Dubai's rental market is governed by a clear set of laws that protect both landlords and tenants. Whether you own a property or are renting one, understanding these regulations can save you significant money and legal trouble. Here is everything you need to know about Dubai rental laws in 2026.
The Legal Framework: Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007
All rental relationships in Dubai are governed by Law No. 26 of 2007 (Regulating the Relationship Between Landlords and Tenants in the Emirate of Dubai), as amended by Law No. 33 of 2008. This law covers all residential and commercial tenancies in Dubai and is enforced by RERA.
Tenant Rights in Dubai
- Right to a signed, Ejari-registered tenancy contract
- Protection against unlawful eviction
- Right to 90 days notice before any rent increase
- Right to 90 days notice before eviction for property sale
- Right to 12 months notice if landlord wants property for personal use
- Right to receive security deposit back within 30 days of vacating
- Right to file a complaint with RERA Rental Dispute Centre
Landlord Rights in Dubai
- Right to evict tenant for non-payment of rent (30 days notice)
- Right to evict for property damage or illegal use
- Right to increase rent in line with RERA Rent Index
- Right to evict with 12 months notice for personal use of property
- Right to deduct damages from security deposit
- Right to file for eviction through RERA Rental Dispute Centre
Rent Increase Rules in Dubai 2026
Rent increases in Dubai are strictly regulated by RERA. The maximum increase allowed depends on how much your current rent is below the market average, as calculated by the RERA Rent Index (also called the RERA Rent Calculator).
- If rent is less than 10% below market rate: No increase allowed
- If rent is 11–20% below market rate: Maximum 5% increase
- If rent is 21–30% below market rate: Maximum 10% increase
- If rent is 31–40% below market rate: Maximum 15% increase
- If rent is more than 40% below market rate: Maximum 20% increase
The landlord must give 90 days written notice before any rent increase. Check the RERA Rent Calculator at dubailand.gov.ae to find your area's market rate.
Security Deposit Rules
The standard security deposit in Dubai is 5% of the annual rent for unfurnished properties and 10% for furnished properties. The landlord must return the deposit within 30 days of the tenancy end date, minus any fair deductions for damages beyond normal wear and tear.
Eviction Rules in Dubai
A landlord cannot simply evict a tenant without following the legal process. The required notice periods are: 30 days for non-payment of rent, 30 days for damage or illegal use, 90 days if the landlord wants to sell the property, and 12 months if the landlord wants to use the property personally.
How to Resolve a Rental Dispute in Dubai
If a landlord and tenant cannot resolve a dispute between themselves, either party can file a complaint with the RERA Rental Dispute Settlement Centre (RDC) at the Dubai Land Department. The filing fee is AED 3.5% of the annual rent (minimum AED 500, maximum AED 20,000).