Question 1

I’ve found an apartment and signed a lease agreement. What’s next?

Accepted Answer

Once the terms of a tenancy contract are agreed upon and signed, the next step is connecting the water and electricity by applying to Dubai Water and Electricity Authority (DEWA). Next, the contract must be registered with RERA through the online portal, Ejari.

Question 2

Can the terms of my lease be altered during the contract period?

Accepted Answer

As per Article 14 of the Dubai tenancy law, the landlord or tenant can amend the terms of the contract, but they must notify the other party at least 90 days before the contract’s expiry date.

Question 3

My circumstances have changed, and I’d like to break my lease early. Can I?

Accepted Answer

According to Article 7 of the RERA tenancy law, rental contracts can only be terminated prior to their expiration date upon the mutual consent and signed agreement between tenant and landlord. There will usually be an early exit clause written into their rental contract, which typically involves some form of compensation due to the landlord.

Question 4

What happens if the landlord sells my apartment while I’m a tenant?

Accepted Answer

If the property is sold while tenanted, the terms of the rental contract must be abided by the new landlord for the remainder of the contractual period.

Question 5

Who is responsible for maintaining my leased property?

Accepted Answer

In common practice, minor repairs (usually those costing under AED500 or US$136) are the responsibility of the tenant, while anything costing more or requiring any major maintenance work should be undertaken and paid for by the landlord. However, it is important to check the specific terms as mentioned in the tenancy contract, and if such terms are not mentioned, get it clarified from the landlord prior to signing the contract. As the tenant, you are legally obligated to vacate the property in the same condition as it was when you signed the lease.

Question 6

I’m almost at the end of my 12-month lease. Can my landlord raise my rent?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the landlord is allowed to increase your rent for the next lease period. However, the increase must be communicated to the tenant 90 days prior to the expiry of the current lease. If the tenant does not wish to continue, they must give notice to the landlord and vacate the property before the next lease period commences. The allowed increase in rent is mandated by RERA guidelines pertaining to the calculated market value of the property and the average market rental rate for the area/locality in question. In general, the rental increase can range from 5% to 20% above the current rate.

Real estate in Dubai: a comprehensive guide