Key takeaways
- Rent increases at renewal follow Decree No. 43 of 2013 and the RERA rental index.
- No increase is allowed if the rent is up to 10% below the average for similar units.
- Notice to change terms on renewal: at least 90 days before expiry.
- Eviction for sale, own use, demolition or major maintenance: 12 months' notice by notary or registered mail.
- RDC fees for rent cases: 3.5% of annual rent, minimum AED 500, maximum AED 20,000.
How much can rent go up?
| Your rent compared with the average for similar units | Maximum increase |
|---|---|
| Up to 10% below average | No increase |
| 11% to 20% below | 5% |
| 21% to 30% below | 10% |
| 31% to 40% below | 15% |
| More than 40% below | 20% |
The average rental value of similar units comes from the Rent Index of the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA). Check the index for your unit before you agree to an increase.
Notice periods
- Changing terms or rent on renewal: notify the other party at least 90 days before the tenancy expires, unless you agreed otherwise (Article 14, as amended by Law No. 33 of 2008).
- Eviction at expiry: only for demolition and reconstruction, comprehensive maintenance verified by Dubai Municipality, owner or first-degree relative use (with no other suitable property), or sale, with 12 months' notice through a notary public or registered mail.
Notice can be served through the notary public, by registered post, by hand or by approved electronic means, under Law No. 26 of 2007. See legal notice in the UAE.
Taking a dispute to the RDC
| RDC rule | Detail |
|---|---|
| Registration fee | Rent cases: 3.5% of annual rent, AED 500 to AED 20,000; money claims capped at AED 15,000; small service fees extra |
| Language | Arabic or legal translation |
| Payment deadline | Unpaid cases are cancelled automatically after 5 days |
| First hearing | Earliest available date at least 7 days after payment |
| Appeal | Within 15 days; financial-only appeals need a claim of AED 100,000 or more |
| Execution | Can start 15 days after judgment; eviction enforcement fee 1% of annual rent, maximum AED 5,000 |
Before you file
- Check the RERA rent index for your unit.
- Collect the tenancy contract, Ejari, receipts and all notices.
- Try to agree in writing; many disputes settle.
- Get documents translated into Arabic if needed.
You can file and attend the RDC yourself. Global Sky PRO is not a law firm and doesn't give legal advice. Under Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2022, representing clients before the courts is reserved for licensed advocates, apart from limited exceptions for close relatives. We type RDC filings and arrange translations. See Rental Dispute Center support.
Sources
- Dubai Legislation Portal: Decree No. (43) of 2013 determining rent increase
- Dubai Legislation Portal: Law No. (26) of 2007
- Dubai Legislation Portal: Law No. (33) of 2008 amending Law No. (26) of 2007
- Rental Dispute Center: register a first instance rental lawsuit
- Rental Dispute Center: FAQs
Official sources checked on 7 November 2026. This guide explains published rules in plain English and is not legal or tax advice. Rules change; we check the current position for your case before you act.