Dubai has some of the strongest tenant protections in the region. Most people do not know their rights until they need them. Know these before you sign anything.
The law that protects you
Dubai's rental market is governed by Law No. 26 of 2007, amended by Law No. 33 of 2008. Decree No. 43 of 2013 introduced the RERA Rental Index, which caps how much a landlord can increase your rent.
Rent increases: what is and is not legal
Landlords cannot simply raise your rent to whatever they like at renewal time. The RERA Rental Index sets the legal ceiling.
- Less than 10% below market — 0% increase allowed
- 11-20% below market — maximum 5% increase
- 21-30% below market — maximum 10% increase
- 31-40% below market — maximum 15% increase
- More than 40% below market — maximum 20% increase
- You must receive 90 days' written notice before any rent increase.
- Check your current rent against the RERA index on the Dubai REST app before renewal season.
- If your landlord increases rent beyond what RERA permits, you can file a dispute.
Eviction: what landlords can and cannot do
- Landlords must give 12 months' written notice to evict you, delivered via notary or registered mail.
- Legal reasons for eviction include: selling the property, moving in themselves, demolition or major renovation.
- If a landlord evicts you and then rents to someone else within 2 years, you can claim compensation.
- Verbal notice does not count. Everything must be in writing.
Security deposit: getting it back
- Your landlord must refund your deposit after your final DEWA bill is cleared and the unit is inspected.
- Document the condition on move-out with photos and a written inspection report.
- If the landlord refuses to return it unfairly, go to the RDC.
- Normal wear and tear cannot be deducted. Only actual damage.
Rental disputes: the RDC
If you have a dispute with your landlord, go to the Rental Disputes Settlement Centre (RDC), not a civil court.
- Filing fee: 3.5% of annual rent (minimum AED 500, maximum AED 20,000).
- Cases are typically resolved within 30 days.
- Website: rdc.gov.ae
Information correct as of June 2026. Always verify at official .gov.ae sources before acting.