Legal Duties Of Landlords Offering Property For Rent In Dubai

Legal Duties Of Landlords Offering Property For Rent In Dubai

Shireen

Written By

Shireen Kapoor

Finding a property for rent in Dubai has become easier with Dubai’s well-structured rental system. There is a clear legal structure behind this system that protects the tenants as well as the landlords. If you are planning to rent out a commercial or residential property, then you must follow some property rules set by the government of Dubai.

 

Legal duties of landlords when offering properties for rent in Dubai include:
 
1. Providing a Property in Good Condition
 

Dubai rental law states that a tenant should receive the property in a condition that allows normal use without facing safety or structural issues. If repairs are needed before handing over the keys, the landlord must take care of them.

This ensures:

  1. 1. The property must be clean.
    2. Basic facilities such as water, electricity, and ventilation are properly working.
    3. For commercial spaces, the infrastructure is appropriate for the type of business activity allowed in that area or building.
2. Registering the Tenancy Contract with Ejari

 

Every rental agreement in Dubai should be registered through Ejari. Ejari is the official system handled by the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA). This step:


1. Makes the contract legally valid
2. Helps avoid disputes
3. Allows tenants to apply for visas, utilities, and other government services

 

It is typically the landlord’s duty to ensure that the lease is Ejari-registered. Whether the property is an apartment for rent in Dubai, a villa, a flat for rent in Dubai, or even an office for rent in Dubai, Ejari registration is mandatory.

 

3. Handling Major Maintenance and Repairs

 

According to Dubai laws, landlords must take care of major maintenance issues unless the tenancy contract states otherwise.

  1. Examples include:
    1. Structural damage
    2. Electrical faults
    3. Plumbing issues
    4. Air-conditioning breakdowns
4. Following the Correct Procedure for Rent Increases

 

Dubai has strict policy for the adjustments of rental price. A landlord cannot increase the rent by their own wish.

The increase depends on the official RERA Rent Index and must follow these points:

  1. 1. A 90-day written notice is required before the contract renewal date
    2. Rent increase must match the percentage allowed by the Rent Index
    3. No increase is allowed if the current rent matches market value

If a landlord does not follow the proper process, the tenant has the right to file a complaint with RERA.

 
5. Returning the Security Deposit (When Due)

 

The landlord must return the security deposit when tenants leave a property, unless there are damages beyond normal wear and tear.

The deposit cannot be suspended wrongly. For example:

  1. 1. Minor marks on walls are normal
    2. Broken fixtures or major damage may justify deductions
  2.  
6. Giving Proper Notice for Eviction

 

A landlord cannot evict a tenant without lawful reasons and proper written notice.

 

Reasons may include:

1. Personal use of the property
2. Selling the unit
3. Major renovations

 

In most cases, Dubai law requires a 12-month written notice, delivered through registered mail or a notary public. This rule applies to all rental types, whether it’s a house for rent in Dubai, a studio for rent in Abu Dhabi, or a commercial shop.

 

7. Complying with All Real Estate Regulations

 

Landlords should follow all guidelines set by Dubai Land Department and RERA.

 

This includes:
1. Not increasing rent unfairly
2. Not disconnecting utilities to force a tenant out
3. Not preventing tenants from using the property smoothly

 

Tenants can approach RERA or seek help from trusted law consultants in Dubai or law firms in Dubai if a landlord violates these rules. Various property owners also rely on skilled advisors like The Ask Consultancy to make sure their rental activities follow right legal procedures.

 

8. Offering Clear and Transparent Communication

 

Transparency is crucial in Dubai’s rental market.

 

Landlords should:
1. Provide honest information about the property
2. Disclose any restrictions
3. Clarify responsibilities in the tenancy contract
4. Give receipts for payments

 

9. Working with Legal Advisors When Needed

 

Many landlords prefer to seek advice from the best lawyer in Dubai or reputable consultants like The Ask Consultancy. This ensures they:

  1. 1. Draft legally sound tenancy contracts
    2. Follow all Dubai rental laws accurately
    3. Protect themselves from future disputes
  2.  
Conclusion

 

The rental system of Dubai is built on clarity and fairness. Whether you are planning to buy property in Dubai and rent it out later, or are currently offering commercial or residential properties, understanding the laws is very important.

 

With transparent practices, proper knowledge, and the correct guidance from experts like The Ask Consultancy, landlords can positively offer any property for rent in Dubai.