Landlord Obligations in Dubai: What You Need to Know

A complete guide on landlord obligations in Dubai, covering tenancy laws, maintenance duties, rental regulations, eviction rules, and legal responsibilities under RERA.

Article Overview

Introduction

1. Key Legal Framework for Landlords in Dubai

2. Registering a Tenancy Contract with Ejari

Ejari Registration Process

3. Landlord Responsibilities for Property Maintenance

4. Rental Increases & RERA Rent Index

How Much Can a Landlord Increase Rent?

5. Eviction Rules & Notice Periods for Landlords

Valid Reasons for Eviction (with Notice Periods)

6. Security Deposits & Refund Policies

7. Advertising & Tenant Screening Obligations

A. Transparent Advertising

B. Tenant Screening Rules

8. Short-Term Rentals: What Landlords Need to Know

9. Taxes & Fees for Landlords in Dubai

10. Landlord Support & Real Estate Services via GoDubai Portal

Conclusion

Introduction

Dubai’s thriving rental market attracts both local and international property investors. As a landlord, understanding your legal responsibilities is crucial to ensuring compliance with Dubai Real Estate Market regulations. The Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA), under the Dubai Land Department (DLD), sets out clear landlord obligations under Law No. 26 of 2007 (Dubai Rental Law) and its amendments.

This guide provides an in-depth overview of the rights, duties, and legal expectations of landlords in Dubai.

1. Key Legal Framework for Landlords in Dubai

Before renting out a property in Dubai, landlords must be aware of the legal framework that governs rental agreements, maintenance obligations, tenant rights, and eviction rules.

✔ Dubai Rental Law – Governs all tenancy contracts in Dubai.
✔ RERA Regulations – Oversees fair rental practices and dispute resolution.
✔ Ejari System – Ensures official registration of rental agreements.
✔ Dubai Tenancy Contract Laws – Defines rental obligations and renewal conditions.

🔗 Dubai Land Department Rental Laws

2. Registering a Tenancy Contract with Ejari

✔ Ejari registration is mandatory for all rental agreements in Dubai.
✔ The landlord (or property manager) must register the contract through the Ejari system.
✔ Without Ejari, tenants cannot access essential services like DEWA (electricity & water), internet, and residency visas.

Ejari Registration Process

1. Prepare Documents:
   
   

   • Emirates ID & Passport Copy
     
     

   • Title Deed of the Property
     
     

   • Tenancy Agreement
     
     

   • Tenant’s Visa Copy (if applicable)
     
     

2. Submit through Ejari Portal or Service Centers.
   
   

3. Pay the Ejari Registration Fee (AED 220 – AED 250).
   
   

4. Receive the Ejari Certificate, confirming the contract is officially registered.
   
   

🔗 Register Your Lease with Ejari

3. Landlord Responsibilities for Property Maintenance

Dubai law requires landlords to maintain rental properties in a condition suitable for tenant use.

✔ Major Repairs: The landlord is responsible for significant repairs, such as electrical, plumbing, and structural issues.
✔ Annual Maintenance: General upkeep of Villas for Sale in Dubai, Apartments for Rent in Dubai, and Commercial Properties in Dubai.
✔ Cooling & AC System: The landlord must provide a functional cooling system.
✔ Safety Compliance: Properties must comply with Dubai’s building codes and fire safety laws.

Who Pays for Maintenance?

• Landlord: Major repairs (plumbing, electrical, structural).
  
  

• Tenant: Minor repairs and daily maintenance (light bulbs, small leaks).
  
  

🔗 RERA Guidelines on Maintenance Responsibility

4. Rental Increases & RERA Rent Index

Landlords cannot arbitrarily increase rent. Any changes must align with RERA’s Rental Price Index.

✔ RERA sets annual rental caps based on market conditions.
✔ Landlords must provide a 90-day notice before increasing rent.
✔ Rent increases must comply with the RERA rental calculator.

🔗 RERA Rental Index Calculator

How Much Can a Landlord Increase Rent?

🔗 Check Rental Price Regulations

5. Eviction Rules & Notice Periods for Landlords

Landlords cannot evict tenants without a valid legal reason.

Valid Reasons for Eviction (with Notice Periods)

✔ Selling the Property – 12 months’ written notice required.
✔ Landlord Needs the Property for Personal Use – 12 months’ notice via notary public.
✔ Major Renovations or Demolition – 12 months’ notice required.

Illegal Eviction Penalties: If a landlord forces eviction without cause, tenants can file a dispute with Dubai’s Rental Dispute Center (RDC).

🔗 Dubai Rental Dispute Center

6. Security Deposits & Refund Policies

✔ The landlord can request a security deposit, typically 5% of annual rent for unfurnished and 10% for furnished apartments.
✔ Deposits must be refunded in full unless there are damages beyond normal wear and tear.

🔗 Security Deposit Rules in Dubai

7. Advertising & Tenant Screening Obligations

A. Transparent Advertising

✔ Listings for Properties for Sale in Dubai, Apartments for Rent in Dubai, and Townhouses for Sale in Dubai must provide accurate information.
✔ Landlords cannot misrepresent a property’s size, condition, or location.

B. Tenant Screening Rules

✔ Landlords can request background checks and financial stability proof.
✔ Discrimination based on nationality, religion, or gender is prohibited under UAE law.

🔗 Dubai Real Estate Advertising Laws

8. Short-Term Rentals: What Landlords Need to Know

Dubai allows landlords to rent properties short-term via platforms like Airbnb, but they must:
✔ Obtain a DTCM (Dubai Tourism) Holiday Home Permit.
✔ Follow short-term rental regulations.
✔ Pay tourism taxes and applicable fees.

🔗 Short-Term Rental Permits in Dubai

9. Taxes & Fees for Landlords in Dubai

✔ No Property Tax – Dubai has no annual property tax.
✔ 5% VAT on Commercial Properties – Applies to Commercial Properties in Dubai.
✔ 4% DLD Transfer Fee – Paid when selling property.

🔗 Dubai Real Estate Taxes & Fees

10. Landlord Support & Real Estate Services via GoDubai Portal

Finding reliable tenants and managing rental properties can be complex. GoDubai Portal offers:

✔ Access to verified real estate brokers and investors.
✔ Insights into Off-Plan Properties in Dubai, Dubai Marina Apartments for Sale, and Luxury Properties in Dubai.
✔ DLD insights, marketing tools, and expert property management services.

🔗 Subscribe to GoDubai Portal

Conclusion

Being a landlord in Dubai requires compliance with rental regulations, maintenance obligations, eviction laws, and tax responsibilities. By following RERA guidelines, registering contracts via Ejari, and ensuring tenant rights are upheld, landlords can maximize their investment potential while remaining legally protected.

Looking to rent out your property hassle-free? Connect with verified brokers and access Dubai’s top real estate insights through GoDubai Portal today.