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Contract GuideNovember 2026 · 7 min read
10 Dubai Tenancy Contract Mistakes to Avoid
Last updated 5 November 2026
Most Dubai tenancy disputes start with a small mistake made on signing day. Here are the 10 we see most often, each tied to what the law or the DLD requires, so you can avoid them.
1
Wrong or vague property details
Article 4 requires a description of the property 'in a manner allowing no room for uncertainty'. A wrong premises (DEWA) number, unit or plot number can stop Ejari registration. Copy the details from the title deed and DEWA bill.
2
Owner and lessor don't match
If the person signing is not the owner, Article 4 requires the owner's name in the contract. Ask for the title deed and, if someone else is signing, proof they are authorised (e.g. a power of attorney or management agreement).
3
Not registering on Ejari
Article 4(2) says all tenancy contracts and amendments must be registered with RERA. Without Ejari you may struggle with DEWA, visas and disputes.
4
Leaving the term unclear
Article 5 says the term must be specified. Without it, the lease is treated as valid for the rent payment period. Write exact start and end dates.
5
Not stating rent and payment method
Article 4 lists rent and payment method as essential details, and Article 9 says the rent must be specified. List total annual rent, number of cheques and due dates.
6
Unclear cheque terms
Rent and payment method must be stated (Article 4). Make the schedule in the contract match the cheques exactly, and note what happens with late payment. Under Article 25(1), eviction for non-payment can follow if rent stays unpaid 30 days after notice, unless agreed otherwise.
7
No written deposit terms
Article 20 allows a security deposit to ensure maintenance, which the landlord must refund (or the remainder) at the end. Record the amount and refund conditions.
8
Missing the 90-day notice for changes
Article 14 requires a party wishing to amend terms (including rent) at renewal to notify the other at least 90 days before expiry, unless otherwise agreed. Put the notice method in the contract and diarise the date.
9
Adding clauses that conflict with the law
Article 7 says a valid lease cannot be ended unilaterally during its term except by mutual consent or under the law. Clauses like 'landlord may evict at any time' are unlikely to hold.
10
Unclear maintenance and fees
Article 16 makes the landlord responsible for maintenance unless agreed otherwise; Article 22 makes the tenant pay government fees for use unless the contract states otherwise. Say who pays what.
Per the DLD, registering through Dubai Now requires a valid Emirates ID, UAE PASS is used for signing, the owner creates and signs the contract and the tenant reviews, signs and pays. The DLD notes this channel is for individuals who own and manage their own properties. Listed fees total AED 177.75.
Article 4 of Law 26 of 2007: a clear description of the property, the purpose, the term, the rent and payment method, and the owner's name if the landlord is not the owner.
Is Ejari registration mandatory?
Yes. Article 4(2) requires all tenancy contracts and amendments to be registered with RERA, which is done through Ejari.
How much notice is needed to change the rent at renewal?
At least 90 days before the contract expires, unless the parties agreed otherwise (Article 14).
Can a landlord cancel the contract mid-term?
Not unilaterally. Article 7 allows termination during the term only by mutual consent or under the law, such as the eviction cases in Article 25.
What happens if the term is not stated?
Under Article 5, the lease is deemed valid for the period specified for rent payment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What must a Dubai tenancy contract include?+
Article 4 of Law 26 of 2007: a clear description of the property, the purpose, the term, the rent and payment method, and the owner's name if the landlord is not the owner.
Is Ejari registration mandatory?+
Yes. Article 4(2) requires all tenancy contracts and amendments to be registered with RERA, which is done through Ejari.
How much notice is needed to change the rent at renewal?+
At least 90 days before the contract expires, unless the parties agreed otherwise (Article 14).
Can a landlord cancel the contract mid-term?+
Not unilaterally. Article 7 allows termination during the term only by mutual consent or under the law, such as the eviction cases in Article 25.
What happens if the term is not stated?+
Under Article 5, the lease is deemed valid for the period specified for rent payment.