How to Resolve a Rental Dispute in Dubai: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
Disagreements between landlords and tenants can arise over rent increases, maintenance issues, security deposits, or eviction notices. In Dubai, rental disputes are not uncommon — but the good news is that the law provides a clear and structured system to handle them fairly. Whether you’re a tenant or a landlord, understanding how to resolve a rental dispute in Dubai can help you protect your rights and reach a legal resolution efficiently.
At Almalia Consulting FZCO, we help both tenants and landlords navigate the Dubai rental dispute process efficiently and lawfully, ensuring a fair outcome for all parties involved.
Understanding Rental Disputes in Dubai
A rental dispute occurs when there’s a disagreement between a tenant and a landlord regarding the terms of a tenancy contract or its implementation. These disputes are governed by Law No. 26 of 2007 and Law No. 33 of 2008, which regulate the relationship between landlords and tenants in Dubai.
Common causes of rental disputes include:
Rent increases without RERA approval
Non-payment of rent
Maintenance or repair negligence
Early termination of contract
Retention of security deposits
Eviction disagreements
The Dubai Rental Dispute Settlement Centre(RDSC), under the Dubai Land Department (DLD), is the official authority responsible for resolving such conflicts.
Step 1: Attempt Amicable Settlement
Before escalating the issue legally, both parties should first try to resolve the matter amicably. Clear communication and documentation can prevent the situation from worsening.
Review the tenancy contract carefully.
Refer to RERA’s rental index for rent-related disputes.
Exchange written communication to document your efforts to resolve the issue.
If the issue persists, you can proceed to file a case with the RDSC.
Step 2: Gather the Required Documents
To file a dispute, ensure you have all the necessary documentation ready. These include:
Copy of the Ejari-registered tenancy contract
Tenant’s Emirates ID and passport copy
Title deed or proof of property ownership
Receipts or payment proofs for rent and deposits
Correspondence or evidence related to the dispute
Notices exchanged between both parties
Having complete and accurate documents ensures that your case moves forward smoothly.
Step 3: File the Case with the RDSC
You can file a case at the Dubai Rental Dispute Settlement Centre, located in Deira, Dubai Land Department building, or through the DLD online portal.
When filing:
Submit your documents to the reception or case registration desk.
Pay the required case registration fees, which are typically 3.5% of the annual rent value, with a minimum and maximum cap depending on the type of dispute.
You will receive a case number and a hearing date once registration is complete.
Step 4: Attend the Mediation Session
After your case is filed, a conciliation session is usually arranged where both parties are invited to present their arguments.
The RDSC aims to reach a mutual agreement through mediation.
If both parties agree, a settlement document is signed, making it legally binding.
If mediation fails, the case proceeds to a formal hearing before a judge.
Step 5: RDSC Hearing and Judgment
During the hearing:
Both parties must attend and present their evidence.
The judge may request additional documents or clarifications.
The RDSC generally issues a final judgment within 30 days, though complex cases may take longer.
The decision issued by the RDSC is legally enforceable and can be executed by the Execution Department if one party fails to comply.
Step 6: Appeal the Decision (If Applicable)
If you believe the decision was unfair, you have the right to appeal within 15 days of receiving the judgment.
The appeal must be based on legal grounds and supported by evidence.
Appeals are reviewed by a higher judicial committee within the RDSC.
Once the appeal judgment is issued, it becomes final and binding.
Step 7: Enforcement of the Judgment
If one party fails to comply with the judgment, you can request enforcement through the Execution Department. This ensures that the ruling — such as payment, eviction, or contract renewal — is properly implemented by law.
Tips to Avoid Rental Disputes in Dubai
Prevention is always better than resolution. Here’s how both landlords and tenants can avoid future disputes:
Always register the tenancy contract with Ejari.
Clearly define maintenance responsibilities in the contract.
Keep all payment records and receipts.
Comply with RERA’s rent cap and index.
Communicate all concerns in writing.