Tenant rights in Dubai and rent increases in Dubai?

With the real estate market booming, many tenants are facing excessive rent increases in Dubai. It is essential to know your rights to avoid any unjustified increase and take appropriate action. This article guides you through the rules established by law and the remedies available to expatriates.

Legislation on rent increases in Dubai

Dubai rent regulations are governed by Law No. 26 of 2007 on rentals in Dubai and its subsequent amendments, notably Law No. 33 of 2008 on relations between tenants and apartment owners. These laws are administered by the Dubai Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA), which oversees rentals in Dubai., which sets limits on rent increases in Dubai and ensures tenant protection.

The 90-day notice rule

Under Article 14 of Law No. 26 of 2007 on the cost of living, an apartment owner must notify the tenant at least 90 days before the end of the contract if they wish to increase the rent in Dubai. This notice must be given in writing; otherwise, the increase cannot be applied to the rental in Dubai.

Limits on rent increases in Dubai

Rent increases in Dubai are regulated by Decree No. 43 of 2013, which imposes the following limits based on the market price:

• No increase if the current rent in Dubai is less than 10% below the market value.
• 5% rent increase in Dubai if the rent in Dubai is 11% to 20% below the market value.
• 10% increase if the rent in Dubai is 21% to 30% below the market value for a type of housing.
• 15% rent increase in Dubai if the rent in Dubai is 31% to 40% below the market value.
• 20% increase for an apartment if the rent in Dubai is more than 40% below the market value.

These limits aim to ensure reasonable increases based on market trends.

Frequency of rent increases in Dubai

According to Article 9 of Law No. 26 of 2007, a landlord cannot increase the rent in Dubai during the first two years of the rental contract. Thereafter, any increase may occur only once a year, providing stability for tenants living in Dubai.

Remedies in the event of a dispute over a rent increase in Dubai

If a tenant believes that a rent increase in Dubai does not comply with the applicable regulations, they may bring the matter before the Rental Dispute Settlement Centre (RDSC). This body handles disputes between tenants and landlords and may order a rent adjustment if the increase is deemed unjustified.

Procedure for filing a complaint:

1. Go to the official Dubai Land Department (DLD) website for rent in Dubai and access the dispute resolution platform for rentals in Dubai.
2. Submit the relevant documents (rental contract for an apartment or house, rent increase notice, proof of payment, etc.) for a furnished apartment.).
3. Wait to receive a hearing date to present your case.

Negotiation for an apartment: an effective alternative

Before taking legal action concerning a rental in Dubai, it is recommended to try negotiating with the landlord of a rental in Dubai. Open communication based on the official regulations of the United Arab Emirates can lead to a mutually beneficial solution.

Using the RERA Dubai rent calculator

The RERA Rental Increase Calculator, available on the Burj Khalifa website, allows tenants and landlords to check whether a rent increase in Dubai complies with the law. Dubai Land Department allows tenants and landlords to check whether a rent increase in Dubai complies with the law. This tool is essential for supporting a renegotiation request or ensuring that a rent increase is lawful. Understanding your rights as a tenant in Dubai is essential to avoiding any unjustified rent increase in Dubai. By knowing the applicable laws and using the tools provided by RERA, every tenant can better anticipate and respond to an unjustified increase in rental prices. If you have any doubts or need legal assistance, do not hesitate to contact a specialized legal adviser.