Understanding Dubai Tenancy Framework
Residential leasing in Dubai operates under Law No. 26 of 2007 and Law No. 33 of 2008, overseen by the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA). All tenancy contracts must be registered with the official Dubai Land Department system known as Ejari.
How to Register Ejari
Ejari registration legalizes the rental agreement, prevents duplicate contracts, and is required to connect DEWA water and electricity services as well as du/Etisalat residential internet.
- Unified Tenancy Contract signed by landlord and tenant.
- Copy of tenant passport, residence visa, and Emirates ID.
- Title deed of the leased apartment.
- Recent DEWA premise number.
RERA Rent Index & Permitted Rental Increases
Landlords cannot arbitrarily raise annual rent. Under Decree No. 43 of 2013, any rental increase upon contract renewal must strictly align with the official RERA Rental Calculator:
- 0% increase if the current rent is up to 10% below average market value.
- 5% increase if current rent is between 11% and 20% below market value.
- 10% increase if current rent is between 21% and 30% below market value.
- 15% increase if current rent is between 31% and 40% below market value.
- 20% maximum cap if current rent is more than 40% below market value.
Notice Periods for Rent Changes & Evictions
Landlords must give at least 90 days' written notice prior to lease expiry for any proposed change in rent or contract terms. For property sale or personal use eviction, an official 12-month notarized notice is strictly mandated by UAE law.
