Most Dubai tenancy disputes come down to one question: was enough notice given? These are the notice periods set by Law No. 26 of 2007 (as amended by Law No. 33 of 2008), with links to the exact text.
90 days — changing rent or terms at renewal
Unless the parties agree otherwise, a landlord or tenant who wants to amend any term of the contract — including the rent — must notify the other party at least 90 days before the contract expires. If they cannot agree, the Rental Disputes Centre may set a fair rent.
See Article 14 and Article 13. To check the legal maximum increase, use our RERA rent increase calculator.
12 months — eviction when the contract ends
For eviction at expiry (sale, owner or first-degree relative moving in, demolition/reconstruction, or restoration requiring vacant possession), the landlord must give 12 months' notice through a Notary Public or registered post.
See Article 25 and our eviction notice guide.
30 days — unpaid rent or a breach during the contract
If the tenant does not pay rent (or part of it) within 30 days of a notice to pay, or does not fulfil an obligation within 30 days of a notice to do so, the landlord may seek eviction before the contract ends.
30 days — when a tenant dies
A tenancy continues with the heirs. If the tenant's heirs want to end it, termination takes effect no less than 30 days after notifying the landlord, or at the contract's expiry date, whichever comes first.
See Article 27.
No notice — automatic renewal
If the contract expires and the tenant stays without objection from the landlord, the contract renews for the same term or one year, whichever is shorter, on the same terms.
See Article 6.