UAE: Rights of Tenants and Landlords in Dubai

The Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) in Dubai is the government authority responsible for issuing and moderating the rules and regulations pertaining to tenancy and landlordism in Dubai. One of the most important things to keep in mind, regardless of being a tenant or landlord, is that the tenancy contract cannot be terminated during its term unless both the involved parties agree to terminate it, or terminate the contract by aligning with the provisions of RERA Law 26 and amendments of Law 33.

Tenant’s Rights

Before you sign the tenancy agreement, take a look at these rights you have as a tenant:

• The landlord shouldn’t give their tenants a house that’s in a bad condition. The landlords are bound by the law to give you a house that’s in good condition, as per the contract signed.
• You are not responsible for the maintenance. As stipulated in the contract, the landlord is responsible for the maintenance and repairs of the space.
• The landlord cannot make any changes to the property or any of the included amenities that would impede the tenant from full utilization of the property. Additionally, the landlord will also provide the tenant with the required documents and approvals. These approvals will then have to be submitted to the relevant officials. The tenant may carry out decoration of the property provided that they have the required documents and that the alteration doesn’t affect the structure of the property.
• The landlord cannot threaten the tenant with withholding the security deposit. In such a scenario, the tenant reserves the right to complain to the rent dispute committee, which will take the final decision.
• The landlord cannot disconnect services to the property or hinder the tenant from enjoying the amenities/benefits of the property without notice. In such an event, the tenant can complain to the police station of the same area and also be able to file a case with the Rent Dispute Committee by enclosing the supporting reports for any compensation.

Tenant’s Obligations

• The tenant must pay the rent without fail and before the stipulated due date.
• In order to make changes to the property, the tenant must first obtain permission from the landlord and then an approval from the relevant authorities.
• The tenant shall pay a security deposit to the landlord. The landlord will have to return this amount upon termination of the tenancy contract or the expiry of the tenancy.
• At the time of expiry of tenancy contract, the property must be handed to the landlord in the same condition as the tenant had received. Except for ordinary wear and tear, and reasons that are outside of the tenant’s control, the tenant is liable for every damage caused.
• Unless stipulated in the contract, the tenant must pay any and all due taxes and fees to the government authorities for utilizing the property and also for any taxes or payments that include the sub-lease.
• Upon vacating or surrendering the property, unless otherwise agreed beforehand by both parties, the tenant isn’t allowed to remove any leasehold improvements.

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