General guide — confirm on the official site

Tenancy disputes

വാടക തർക്കങ്ങൾ

Dubai has a dedicated body under the Dubai Land Department for landlord–tenant disputes.

Go to the official service Last updated: November 2026

This is general guidance. Fees and rules change — confirm on the official link and apply only there.

Who needs this?

Anyone with a problem over deposits, rent increases or eviction.

Eligibility

  • Tenants or landlords in Dubai with a registered (Ejari) contract
  • Rent increases must follow the RERA rent index and need 90 days' notice
  • Eviction for owner's use/sale needs 12 months' notarised notice

Required documents

  • Tenancy contract and Ejari
  • Emirates ID
  • Cheques, receipts, notices, messages

Step by step

  1. Check the allowed increase with the RERA rent calculator
  2. Try to settle in writing with the landlord
  3. File at the Rental Disputes Center (online or typing centre)
  4. Attend the hearing; mediation is tried first

Fees

About 3.5% of annual rent (min ~AED 500, max ~AED 20,000)

Processing time

Often decided within about 30 days

Online or in person

Online and in person

Where to go — useful links

Prices and timings are approximate and change — confirm on the official site before paying.

DubaiRental Disputes Center (Dubai)

File rent and eviction disputes in Dubai.

DubaiDubai REST app (DLD)

Official app: Ejari, rent index, check a broker's licence.

Responsible authority

Common mistakes

  • Not keeping receipts for every payment.
  • Giving notices verbally instead of in writing.

Related questions

What about other emirates?

Each emirate has its own rent committee: Abu Dhabi through TAMM/ADJD, Sharjah through the Sharjah Municipality rent disputes committee. Ejari applies only in Dubai.

Related guides

Official sources

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