FAQ: Is my Dubai Landlord Allowed to Raise the Rent?

A short answer to this often asked question is "yes". 

However, the landlord can only raise the rent up to the amount as indicated on the Dubailand Rental Increase Calculator .

The new laws introduced last year for rental caps may seem confusing, but it is worth spending a bit of time to understand how it works, in order to have an informed discussion with your landlord. 

Essentially, the rental increase calculator determines the maximum your rent can be increased by-- the calculator is updated every three months to reflect accurate market pricing.

How is the rent cap calculated you ask?

• 5%  per cent if your current annual rent is 11 to 20% lower than the average rent for a similar property.
• 10% if your current annual rent is 21 to 30% lower than the average rent for a similar property.
• 15% if your current annual rent is 31 to 40% lower than average rent for a similar property.
• 20% if your current annual rent is more than 40% lower than average rent for a similar property.

Q: What if my landlord raises the rent above the allowed amount?

A: If your landlord raises your rent above the percentage allowed by the rent calculator, you can take your claim to the Rental Dispute Settlement Centre at the Land Department. 

Q: I discussed the rental increase calculator with my landlord, but he is telling me to pay or get out. What should I do?

A: If you refuse to agree to an unlawful rent increase and your landlord threatens to evict you, the law is clear on this matter-- landlords can only evict tenants from an apartment if they have provided 12 months notice and they plan on reselling the apartment. 

The only other reason a tenant can be evicted is if the landlord or their immediate family intend to move into the property. If it is the latter, the landlord cannot rent the property out to another tenant for another two years.

When all fails, the rental committee can help resolve any disputes.  

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