Whether you’re a landlord or tenant, leasing a property in Dubai is an exciting step, but success depends on understanding the city’s evolving legal framework. In this blog, we’ll walk you through how to navigate Dubai’s law & regulations when leasing a property, especially focusing on the key points under the Dubai tenancy laws 2026, RERA rental rules in Dubai, and the rights of both parties: landlord/tenant rights in Dubai. We’ll also give you a tenant checklist for Dubai and help you grasp what to look for in a lease agreement in Dubai.
The Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) is the center of Dubai’s rental system, operating under the Dubai Land Department (DLD). These authorities govern lease agreements, dispute resolutions, and rental regulations and implemented the Dubai tenancy laws of 2026.
Key laws include:
Under RERA rental rules in Dubai, both landlords and tenants must register contracts through the Ejari system, follow rent increase guidelines via the RERA rental index, and adhere to formal procedures for eviction or dispute resolution. All these laws shape the Dubai tenancy laws of 2026, ensuring transparency and fairness.
For Tenants:
> Ejari registration is compulsory: Without Ejari registration, your lease is not legally enforceable.
> The right to peaceful enjoyment of the property: The landlord must deliver the property in a habitable state and take care of the essential maintenance.
> Controlled rent increases: Landlords can only increase rents in accordance with RERA’s official rental index; no arbitrary hikes are allowed.
> Protection from illegal eviction: Eviction can only be executed in case of valid reasons like non-payment of rent or illegal use ,or sale of the property.
For Landlords:
> Right to payment of rent in due time: The landlord can file a lawsuit if the tenant fails to pay the rent within the specified time.
> Legal rent modification: The rent increase has to comply with RERA regulations and be communicated in writing 90 days in advance.
> Genuine reasons for eviction: The most significant renovations, the owner’s moving in, or the property’s sale are valid reasons, but they must be in accordance with Law 26/2007.
> Obligation to maintain the property: The landlord is responsible for making sure that the property is safe and fit for human habitation at all times.
Understanding Landlord/tenant rights in Dubai helps both parties prevent disputes and ensures a transparent rental relationship built on trust and legal clarity.
Review the following essentials before signing the Lease Agreement in Dubai.
> Complete property details – location, type, and current condition.
> Tenancy duration and rent terms – payment frequency and renewal conditions.
> Security deposit – refund process and damage deduction policy.
> Maintenance obligations – clarity on whether the tenant or the landlord handles repairs.
> Rent increase clauses – ensure they comply with RERA rental rules in Dubai.
> Notice periods – confirm timeframes for vacating or renewal.
> Alteration and subletting permissions – check if written consent is required.
> Ejari registration – this step secures your legal rights under Dubai tenancy law.
A transparent and well-drafted lease agreement in Dubai helps to prevent misunderstandings.
Landlord/Tenant Checklist in Dubai:
> Review all lease clauses for compliance with Dubai tenancy laws 2026 and RERA rental rules in Dubai.
> Using a tenant checklist in Dubai and a landlord checklist ensures compliance, avoids disputes, and fosters trust between both parties.
The Dubai real estate market trends for 2026 show an atmosphere where renters and buyers both benefit:
In this balanced phase, the question is it better to buy or rent in Dubai truly depends on your timeframe and lifestyle priorities.
Yes. Under the RERA rules, a written tenancy contract must be registered via the Ejari system for full legal enforceability.
A minimum of 90 days’ written notice is required in most cases before a lawful rent increase under the 90-day notice rule.
No. They must comply with RERA rental rules. For example, if the current rent is only up to 10% below market, no increase is allowed; other bands allow limited percentage increases.
Grasping Dubai tenancy laws 2026, RERA rental rules in Dubai, and landlord/tenant rights in Dubai gives you the power to make better rental decisions, whether you are creating a lease in Dubai or checking your tenant checklist in Dubai.
Partnering with Shubh Labh Realtors, your reliable navigator through Dubai’s rental rules and leasing journey, simplifies the procedure.
Shubh Labh Realtors offer their professional guidance and honesty; thus, you are able to rent confidently and prevent expensive errors.
Shubh Labh Realtors: Simplifying property compliance, securing your peace of mind.
