Simplifying real estate: Your rights as a tenant in 2023

Whether you’re new to Dubai or an old tenant, here are some important things you need to know.

RERA, which is Dubai’s real estate regulatory agency, has specific laws that outline the roles and responsibilities of both tenants and landlords.

Tenants! You might be pleased to know, we’re here to break these down for you…

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We’re pretty sure you’ll have heard by now (and if you haven’t - where have you been?) but rental cheques are on their way out.

This means you can now, by law, arrange to pay your rent through direct debit.

The new direct debit system, which is overseen by the Central Bank of the UAE, will automatically transfer all rental funds to your landlord.

We’ve got a whole blog on how to make the switch - click below!

Read: Direct debits: How to make the switch

Is the price right?

Read: Just the two of us: Dubai’s top ten areas for renting couples

Typically, landlords tend to charge a higher rent rate to tenants who opt for multiple debits. If you can, it’s usually more cost effective to arrange one payment.

Rent is rising - is this allowed?

Your landlord does have the power to increase your rental rate on an annual basis but this has to be based on Dubai Land Department’s Rental Index.

However they must provide you with a written notice of 90 days.

If they inform you after this time period, you can legally and rightfully refuse the rent increase.

What about security deposits?

In Dubai, landlords always require a security deposit. This deposit is typically 5% for unfurnished and 10% for furnished properties and if you return the property in good condition at the end of your contract, it will be refunded.

I’ve noticed snagging issues - who covers repair costs?

The property owner will usually take responsibility for general maintenance and repairs, but it’s important you refer to your contract in this instance, as there is no ‘one size fits all’.

Your tenancy agreement may limit the landlord's responsibility to any major repairs that exceed a specific amount.

I’ve been served an eviction notice - what now?

A landlord has the right to serve you an eviction notice but can only do so with a written notice of 12 months.

It’s important to be aware, that in cases where an apartment is being illegally sublet or used, for anything that was not agreed within the initial contract, there have been many cases where a landlord has served an eviction notice as little as fifteen days.

If you are on an annual contract, your landlord must reach out to a registered lawyer or notary public to inform you in regards to any eviction notice.

Break clauses

Your contract may include something called a break clause, which allows the landlord to proceed with an early termination (with a penalty to them).

It’s important to discuss this with your assigned agent before you sign your contract and then negotiate and include a provision in the agreement which will protect your rights and interests.

If you are searching for your next home, get in touch with our team of experts!

And if you have any further queries or douts, feel free to contact our Head of Property Management; Anisha Sagar.