'We're selling — you need to move out' is not how Dubai law works. Here's what protects tenants when ownership changes.
The sale doesn't end your contract
Article 28: transferring ownership to a new owner does not affect the tenant's right to continue occupying the property under the contract with the previous owner, provided the contract has a fixed term.
Read Article 28.
Eviction for sale: only at expiry, with 12 months' notice
Wanting to sell is one of the four grounds for eviction when the contract expires — and the landlord must notify the tenant of the reason 12 months before the eviction date, through a Notary Public or registered post.
See Article 25 and our eviction notice guide.
If the landlord or tenant dies
The contract does not expire on death; it continues with the heirs. A tenant's heirs may end it with 30 days' notice or at expiry, whichever comes first.
See Article 27.
Practical tips
- Ask for the new owner's details and where to pay rent — in writing.
- Make sure the Ejari reflects the change when the contract is renewed.
- Keep paying rent on time; non-payment is a separate eviction ground.