Dubai’s rental market is one of the most active and regulated in the Middle East. Whether you are a landlord or a tenant, understanding your rights is essential for maintaining a fair and transparent rental relationship. The Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) plays a key role in overseeing rental contracts, rent increases, eviction rules, maintenance obligations, and dispute resolution. When disagreements arise, cases are handled by the Rental Dispute Settlement Center (RDSC)—a judicial arm under the Dubai Land Department.

Because rental laws can be complex, many residents and landlords seek guidance from a professional Property Lawyer in Dubai. At dylegalconsultants.com, our team provides legal support to protect your rights and resolve disputes efficiently.

Below is a detailed guide explaining how RERA regulates rental relationships and how the RDSC resolves conflicts.

 

1. RERA’s Role in Regulating Tenancy Contracts

RERA governs all aspects of rental agreements in Dubai through several key regulations. It ensures:

• Rental contracts follow the standard form (Ejari)
• Landlords cannot impose illegal terms
• Tenants are protected from unreasonable rent increases
• Landlords maintain the property to livable standards
• Eviction notices follow legal guidelines

RERA’s rules are designed to promote balance and fairness between both parties.

 

2. Ejari Registration: The Foundation of Legal Protection

Every rental contract in Dubai must be registered through Ejari, the government’s official tenancy registration system.

Ejari ensures:

• The lease terms are legally documented
• Both parties are protected in case of disputes
• Rent increases follow RERA’s rent index
• Tenants can obtain essential services (DEWA, internet, etc.)

If a tenancy is not registered with Ejari, the RDSC may not recognize the contract during disputes.

 

3. RERA Rent Index and Rent Increase Laws

RERA publishes an official Rent Index used to determine legal rent increases.

Under Law No. 26 of 2007 and Law No. 33 of 2008:

• Landlords cannot increase rent arbitrarily
• Rent increases must follow the RERA calculator
• Tenants must receive 90 days’ written notice for any changes
• Rent increases are capped based on how much current rent differs from market standards

A Property Lawyer in Dubai can verify whether a rent increase is legal and challenge violations at RDSC.

4. Maintenance and Repair Obligations

RERA clearly outlines maintenance responsibilities:

Landlord responsibilities include:

• Major maintenance
• Structural repairs
• AC and essential system repairs
• Ensuring the property is fit for living

Tenant responsibilities include:

• Minor repairs
• Keeping the property clean
• Avoiding misuse or damage

If either party fails their responsibilities, RERA law determines liability.

5. Legal Rules for Eviction

Eviction in Dubai is strictly regulated. Landlords can only evict tenants under the conditions set by RERA:

12-Month Notice Required

Landlords must provide a written, notarized 12-month eviction notice for:

• Selling the property
• Personal use
• Major renovation
• Rebuilding

Immediate Eviction in Special Cases

This includes:

• Non-payment of rent
• Illegal activities
• Subleasing without permission

Illegal or improper eviction attempts can be challenged at the RDSC.

 

6. Security Deposits and Refund Disputes

RERA requires landlords to:

• Issue a receipt for the deposit
• Return the deposit at the end of tenancy
• Deduct only for actual damages, not wear and tear

If disputes arise regarding unfair deductions, tenants can file a claim with the RDSC.

7. What Is the Rental Dispute Settlement Center (RDSC)?

The RDSC is the judicial authority responsible for resolving rental disputes in Dubai.

It is structured into multiple committees:

1. Reconciliation Committee

Attempts to resolve disputes amicably.

2. First Instance Committee

Issues judgments on unresolved disputes.

3. Appeals Committee

Reviews appeals for claims above AED 100,000.

4. Enforcement Department

Executes judgments such as eviction orders or payment recovery.

The RDSC is known for being efficient, transparent, and accessible.

8. Types of Disputes Handled by the RDSC

Common disputes brought before the center include:

• Rent increase disputes
• Eviction disputes
• Maintenance disagreements
• Security deposit disputes
• Illegal subleasing
• Non-payment of rent
• Ejari violations
• Breach of tenancy terms

With strong legal representation, tenants and landlords can resolve issues quickly and fairly.

9. Filing a Case at the RDSC

To file a case, the claimant must submit:

• Ejari certificate
• Passport and Emirates ID
• Tenancy agreement
• Correspondence (notices, emails, messages)
• Evidence of violations
• Payment of required fees (typically 3.5% of annual rent)

A Property Lawyer in Dubai can prepare the case file, submit documents, and represent you in hearings.

10. How a Property Lawyer Helps in Rental Disputes

Legal expertise is essential for navigating Dubai’s rental laws. A lawyer helps by:

• Reviewing rent increases
• Challenging illegal eviction notices
• Preparing and filing RDSC cases
• Negotiating settlements
• Drafting legal notices
• Clarifying landlord/tenant obligations
• Ensuring fair enforcement of judgments

At dylegalconsultants.com, we help clients defend their rights and reach the best legal outcome.

Conclusion

RERA provides one of the world’s most transparent frameworks for regulating tenant–landlord relationships. From rent increases to maintenance responsibilities to eviction rules, both parties have clear rights and obligations. When disputes arise, the Rental Dispute Settlement Center (RDSC) ensures quick and effective resolution according to Dubai’s real estate laws.

With the support of an experienced Property Lawyer in Dubai, tenants and landlords can confidently navigate disputes and secure fair outcomes.