The Ultimate Tenants & Landlords Guide to Dubai

Quick, reliable insights on renting, leasing, and property management in the UAE

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Renting Process: Tenant vs. Landlord

For Tenants

Property Hunting

Search for Ejari-verified listings and request title deed proofs to ensure ownership.

Contract Essentials:

Ensure that lease details (duration, rent amount, and renewal terms) are clearly clear. Obtain the Ejari certificate, your safeguard against illegal rent increases.

DEWA and Security Deposit

Transfer utilities into your name upon contract signing; plan to pay up to 5% as a deposit.

For Landlords

Setting Competitive Rents

Consult the RERA Rent Index for comparable prices; overpricing discourages excellent tenants.

Marketing & Viewings

Highlight the available building amenities and include a DEWA bill to showcase a clear billing history.

Contract Drafting

Utilize Ejari templates that are approved by RERA. Clearly designate maintenance responsibilities to prevent conflicts.

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Maintenance & Repairs: Who Does What—and Why It Matters

Tenant’s Responsibilities

✔changing light bulbs, unclogging sinks, painting small scratches.
✔Keeping the unit clean and using appliances and fixtures is a reasonable, “ordinary person” manner
✔repairing any damage caused by misuse or neglect

Landlord’s Responsibilities

✔Structural repairs (such as roof damage or plumbing system problems)
✔Major systems include electrical cables, air conditioning compressor units, and water tanks.
✔Any condition that makes the apartment uninhabitable or hazardous.

Checklist for Smooth Maintenance

✔ Confirm responsibilities in writing within the lease
✔ Maintain receipts and records of all repair work
✔ Schedule annual AC and water tank servicing (common in Dubai)
✔ Keep emergency contacts for DEWA, maintenance firms, and your landlord/broker

Lease Renewal: What to Expect and How to Prepare

For Tenants

By law, your landlord must tell you at least 90 days before the lease expires if they intend to change any provisions, including rental hikes. If you do not get formal notification, you have the legal right to renew under the current terms.

For Landlords

Use the RERA Rent Index Calculator to see if you're qualified to raise the rent. Increases must be consistent with Decree No. 43 of 2013, and are based on how your existing rent compares to the market average.

Approved Contractors & Legal Safety Nets

  • Use registered professionals for electrical, plumbing, or structural work. This not only ensures quality but protects you in case of insurance claims or legal inspection.
  • Landlords must use licensed contractors for structural work.
  • Tenants are advised to check with landlords before hiring anyone for significant repairs.

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Whether you're renting your property for the first time or have experience in renting out properties, Dubai's tenancy laws can be complex. Our experts are here to simplify every step.

What We Offer

  • One-on-one discussions for contract review
  • Help with Ejari registration, DEWA setup, and rental valuation.
  • Mediator advice for disputes or deposit concerns

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can my rent be increased during the tenancy?

No. Rent can only be increased at renewal time and in accordance with the RERA Rent Index and Decree No. 43 of 2013. Landlords must provide tenants at least 90 days notice of any proposed increase.

What if my landlord doesn’t do essential repairs?

You must notify the landlord in writing. If they do not answer within a reasonable period (especially in an emergency), you may file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Centre (RDC) using your Ejari-registered lease.

What is Ejari and why does it matter?

Ejari is Dubai’s official tenant registration system. Without it, your lease is not legally enforceable, and you cannot connect to DEWA services or file rental complaints.

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