The Dubai real estate market is dynamic, diverse, and continues to attract people and investors from around the globe. And along with growth comes the problem of rental disputes between the landlords and/or tenants. Being a tenant who is unjustly evicted or even a landlord who is trying to recover the unpaid rent, it is necessary to know about your legal rights and the appropriate procedure in Baghdad or even the UAE.
The Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) in 2025 has brought a number of changes that every tenant and landlord should know. Respected law firm Maaf Legal in Dubai provides a list of areas to be aware of iin regard to changes to the law and the options of dispute resolution and appropriate legal solutions that can be offered to either side.
Understand Dubai’s Rental Laws
The renting in Dubai is controlled by Law No. (26) of 2007 as amended by Law No. (33) of 2008 governing the relationship between the landlords and their tenants in the Emirate of Dubai. RERA regulates the rental agreements and any disagreements through the Dubai Land Department (DLD).
Rental contracts in Dubai have to be registered using the Ejari system – an obligatory online system for registering and verifying tenancy contracts.
The Changes to Rental Laws to Watch in 2025
1. Rent Increase Law Dubai 2025
The most remarkable change in 2025 is the change in the rent cap mechanism. According to the new RERA regulations:
- Landlords are not allowed to raise the rents unless they are currently paying a lot lower than the average rent amount of the types of homes in the same location.
- Any increase in the rent can be made as per the RERA rental index, and it should not exceed 20 percent, even in extraordinary situations.
- Landlords are required to give three months’ notice (in writing) of an increase in rents at the renewal of the contract.
In case of Rent increments, Tenants should always request written documentation of the increments. These rules should be followed by a landlord; in case they are not followed, the tenants could file a case at the Dubai Rental Disputes Settlement Centre (RDSC).
2. Tenant Eviction Process UAE: What’s Legal?
In Dubai, eviction is not as simple as issuing a verbal warning or cutting off utilities. The tenant eviction process UAE is governed by strict legal rules designed to protect both parties.
Valid reasons for eviction include:
- Non-payment of rent for 30 consecutive days or more.
- Use of the property for illegal activities.
- Major renovations that require the tenant to vacate.
- Landlord or first-degree relatives intending to move into the property (with 12-month written notice).
Important:
Eviction notices must be delivered through a Notary Public or registered mail. If you’ve received a verbal notice or an informal message via WhatsApp or email, it is not legally enforceable.
At Maaf Legal, our rental dispute lawyer Dubai helps both landlords and tenants navigate eviction notices, ensuring all legal procedures are followed and rights are protected.
3. The Rental Dispute in Dubai
In case of a disagreement that cannot be solved peacefully, the landlord or the tenant may turn to the rental dispute lawyer Dubai and Rental Disputes Settlement Centre (RDSC), which is a department of the Dubai Land Department.
- Some of the most common disputes about tenancies are:
- Illegal eviction
- Inequitable rent escalation
- Damage to property
- Breach of agreement
- Lack of payment of rent or dispute over the deposit
Procedure on how to file a rental dispute:
1. Collect the documents: tenancy contract, Ejari certificate, payment slips, communications, and the eviction or rent increment notice.
2. Launch a complaint on the website and at RDSC.
3. Pay fee up (normally 3.5 percent of the annual rent- usually), minimum AED 500, and maximum AED 20000.
4. Hearings -The committee listens to both sides and looks at the evidence.
5. judgment – Legally binding and enforceable.
Mediation and Legal Representation
Not all disputes need to go through a full legal process. The RDSC offers mediation services where parties can reach an amicable solution before escalating to formal litigation. However, complex cases-such as those involving commercial properties, multiple unpaid installments, or procedural errors-often require expert legal help.
Why legal representation matters:
- Ensures you follow legal procedures correctly
- Helps you present strong documentary evidence
- Protects your interests during settlement or litigation
- Speeds up resolution time and reduces stress
At Maaf Legal, we provide strategic legal support to tenants and landlords, representing clients before RERA, RDSC, and higher courts if needed. Our legal team is fluent in Arabic and English and understands the nuances of UAE property laws.
Tenant Rights in Dubai (2025)
RERA has reinforced several key rights for tenants this year to ensure fair treatment in rental contracts.
- Right to renew: Tenants have the right to renew their rental contract unless the landlord has a legally valid reason for termination.
- Right to safe living conditions: Landlords must maintain the property and ensure essential services like water, electricity, and air conditioning are functional.
- Right to fair rent: Rent must follow the RERA index, and any increase should be legally justified and notified in writing.
- Right to dispute unfair treatment: Tenants can file complaints if their rights are violated, including unlawful eviction or unreasonable rent demands.
Landlord Rights and Obligations
Landlords in Dubai also have clearly defined rights, provided they follow due process.
Rights:
- Collect rent on time as per contract
- Increase rent within legal limits
- Evict tenants under valid grounds with proper notice
Obligations:
- Maintain the property in habitable condition
- Register the tenancy contract with Ejari
- Provide proper legal notice for any contractual change
A landlord who breaches any part of the contract or applicable law may face fines or legal claims. Maaf Legal offers comprehensive legal advice for landlords, helping draft enforceable tenancy contracts, manage tenant relations, and represent you in rental disputes.
How Maaf Legal Can Help You?
Whether you’re a tenant trying to protect your rights or a landlord dealing with a difficult renter, legal challenges in real estate can be overwhelming. Maaf Legal is a specialized law firm in Dubai offering expert guidance and representation in all types of rental disputes.
Our services include:
- Rental contract drafting and review
- Legal advice on eviction or termination
- Mediation and dispute settlement
- Full legal representation before RDSC and Dubai Courts
- Assistance with Ejari registration, rent caps, and notice periods
With years of experience and a results-driven approach, we ensure that your case is handled with precision, integrity, and speed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can my landlord legally increase the rent in 2025 without notice?
No. As per the rent increase law Dubai 2025 update to RERA regulations, landlords must provide a 90-day written notice before any rent increase. The increase must also comply with the official RERA rental index. Without proper notice or justification, the tenant can legally reject the increase and file a complaint with the Rental Disputes Settlement Centre.
2. What are the legal steps for eviction in Dubai?
To evict a tenant, the landlord must issue a 12-month written notice via notary public or registered mail, depending on the reason (e.g., personal use, major renovations). Immediate eviction is allowed only in specific cases, such as non-payment of rent for over 30 days or illegal property use. All evictions must comply with UAE tenancy law.
3. How can Maaf Legal help in a rental dispute?
Maaf Legal provides expert legal representation for both landlords and tenants. Our services include filing rental cases, reviewing tenancy contracts, responding to eviction notices, and negotiating settlements at the Rental Disputes Settlement Centre (RDSC). We ensure your rights are protected under the current Dubai real estate laws.
Final Thoughts
In 2025, Dubai continues to balance the needs of tenants and landlords through a clear legal framework.But navigating rental disputes still requires careful attention to detail and legal awareness. Whether you’re dealing with an unexpected rent increase, facing eviction, or trying to recover unpaid rent, acting early and consulting a qualified lawyer can make all the difference.
At Maaf Legal, we are committed to delivering timely, strategic, and transparent legal support for all your rental needs in Dubai. Let our experienced team protect your property rights so you can focus on
what matters most.
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Mai Alfalasi Advocates & Legal Consultancy
1203, Green Tower
Baniyas Street, Deira
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Phone. +971 4 223 0666
Whatsapp. +971 50 208 9986
Email. info@maaflegal.ae
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Monday to Friday