What is the main rental law in Dubai?

Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007 (as amended by Law No. 33 of 2008) governs the relationship between landlords and tenants in Dubai. It is enforced by RERA, a division of the Dubai Land Department.

How much notice does a landlord need to give to evict a tenant?

30 days for non-payment of rent, 90 days for property sale, and 12 months written notice (via notary public) if the landlord wants the property for personal use, demolition, or major renovation.

What is the maximum rent increase allowed in Dubai?

It depends on how much your current rent is below the RERA Rent Index. If within 10% of market: 0% increase. 11–20% below: 5%. 21–30% below: 10%. 31–40% below: 15%. More than 40% below: 20%. The landlord must give 90 days written notice before any increase.

How much can a landlord charge as security deposit?

5% of annual rent for unfurnished properties and 10% for furnished properties. Landlords cannot legally demand more, and the deposit must be returned within 30 days of move-out minus any legitimate damage deductions.

Can a landlord enter the property without permission?

No. Under Dubai tenancy law, a landlord cannot enter the property without the tenant's prior consent, except in emergencies. Cutting utilities, changing locks, or harassing a tenant to vacate is illegal.

Where do I file a rental dispute in Dubai?

At the RERA Rental Dispute Settlement Centre (RDC) at the Dubai Land Department. You can file online at dubailand.gov.ae. Filing fees are 3.5% of the annual rent (capped at AED 35,000) and most cases are resolved within 30–60 days.

Dubai Rental Laws 2026: Complete Guide to Landlord & Tenant Rights

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).

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