A Complete Guide to Tenancy Law in Dubai: Everything You Need to Know
Before signing a rental contract in Dubai, it’s crucial to understand the Tenancy Law in Dubai (RERA tenancy laws). RERA
About RERA’s Tenancy Laws (Tenancy Law in Dubai)
RERA, part of the Dubai Land Department, regulates rental properties and landlord-tenant relationships in Dubai. Key laws include:
- Law No. (26) of 2007: Regulates landlord-tenant relationships.
- Law No. (33) of 2008: Amends certain articles of Law No. (26) of 2007.
- Decree No. (26) of 2013: Establishes the Rental Disputes Settlement Centre (RDC).
- Decree No. (43) of 2013: Governs rent increases.
Terms of RERA Tenancy Law in Dubai
Law No. 26 of 2007, governing landlord-tenant relationships, allows the Real Estate Regulatory Agency to set guidelines for a smooth rental market in Dubai.
Registering the Tenancy Contract
- Tenancy contracts must be registered with RERA through Ejari to ensure the unit is not leased twice.
Automatic Renewal
- If a tenancy contract expires and the tenant continues to live in the property without objection from the landlord, it automatically renews for one year under the same terms.
Property Ownership Transfer
- Transferring property ownership to a new owner does not affect the tenant’s right to occupy the property.
Amending the Terms of the Contract
- Either party must notify the other at least 90 days before the contract expires if they wish to amend the contract terms, including rent and contract duration.
Terminating Tenancy Contracts
- Rental agreements cannot be unilaterally terminated during their term unless both parties agree.
- The tenancy relationship is transferred to heirs if a tenant or landlord dies, unless the heirs choose to terminate it with appropriate notice.
Vacating Notice
- Tenants do not need to provide notice before vacating the property upon contract expiry, but must adhere to any notice period specified in the contract.
Eviction Rules as per the Tenancy Law in Dubai
Under RERA’s eviction law, Article 25 of Law No. 26 of 2007 (amended by Law No. 33 of 2008) allows landlords to evict tenants before the contract ends in certain cases, including:
- The tenant fails to pay rent within 30 days of notification.
- The tenant subleases without written approval.
- The property is used for illegal activities.
- The tenant causes damage or changes that endanger the property.
- The tenant fails to comply with contract terms or law within 30 days of notification.
- Commercial tenants close operations for specified periods without valid reasons.
- The property needs demolition or major renovation, is to be sold, or is required for the landlord’s personal use. In these cases, the landlord must give 12 months’ notice by registered mail or public notary.
Rent Increase Regulations as per the Tenancy Law in Dubai
- Rent cannot be increased within the first two years of the original contract.
- Landlords must notify tenants of rent increases at least 90 days before the contract expires. Tenants must accept or refuse the increase with 60 days’ notice.
- Rent increases must comply with Decree No. (43) of 2013, with different caps based on current rent compared to similar units. RERA’s rental calculator can help determine the permissible increase.
What are the Responsibilities of Tenants and Landlords as per the Tenancy Law in Dubai?
Responsibilities of Tenants
Here are some important RERA tenancy rules for tenants to remember when renting property in Dubai:
- Pay rent on time.
- Obtain landlord’s permission for any maintenance or changes to the property.
- Return the property in the same condition at the end of the lease, except for normal wear and tear.
- Pay necessary taxes and fees unless agreed otherwise.
- Do not remove improvements unless agreed upon.
Responsibilities of Landlord
According to the RERA property rent law, the landlords in Dubai have the following obligations.
- Ensure the property is in good condition and usable as per the contract.
- Maintain, repair, and restore the property for the entire tenancy term unless agreed otherwise.
- Do not make changes that hinder the tenant’s use of the property.
- Provide necessary permits for construction or redecoration.
By understanding these rules, both tenants and landlords can ensure a smooth and hassle-free rental experience in Dubai.