Tenancy: UAE legislation

DIFC Leasing Regulations 2023 (Consolidated Version, in force 22 February 2023)

Made under Article 9 of the Leasing Law 2020, the Regulations explain how the Law applies to leases entered into before it commenced, when the security-deposit provisions (Articles 24 to 29) attach to pre-existing residential leases, and the penalties for offences under the Law and Regulations.

Leasing Law, DIFC Law No. 1 of 2020

Governs leases of commercial, retail and residential premises within the DIFC: lease registration, landlord and tenant rights and obligations, security deposits held under a Registrar scheme, termination and the DIFC Courts' jurisdiction over lease disputes, displacing Dubai RERA rules inside the Centre.

Decree No. 43 of 2013 On Determining the Increase in the Real-Estate Rentals in the Emirate of Dubai

Caps rent increases on renewal by reference to the average market rent: no increase where the rent is up to 10% below market, rising through bands of 5%, 10% and 15% to a maximum 20% where the rent is more than 40% below market; effective on its issue date of 18 December 2013.

Law No. (33) of 2008 Amending Law No. (26) of 2007 Regulating the Relationship between Landlords and Tenants in the Emirate of Dubai

Replaces Articles 2, 3, 4, 9, 13, 14, 15, 25, 26, 29 and 36 of the tenancy law: twelve months' notice through a notary public or registered mail for end-of-lease evictions, 90 days' notice to change renewal terms including rent, and tribunal power to set fair rent by reference to RERA criteria; in force on Gazette publication.

Law No. (26) of 2007 Regulating the Relationship between Landlords and Tenants in the Emirate of Dubai

Framework for leasing property in Dubai: contract requirements and RERA registration, rent increase limits, grounds and notice for eviction, duties of landlords and tenants, subletting and the dispute tribunal; takes effect 60 days after Gazette publication and is amended by Law No. 33 of 2008.