Can Tenants in Dubai Allow Relatives to Stay in Rented Homes? A Clear Look at What the Law Permits and Prohibits

In Dubai, tenancy arrangements are governed by a well-defined legal framework that balances a tenant’s right to enjoy the rented property with the landlord’s right to regulate its use. While tenants are generally free to live in their homes with their immediate family, questions often arise when extended family members or relatives plan to stay for longer periods.

Under Dubai’s tenancy laws, a tenant is entitled to occupy and use the rented property strictly for the purpose agreed upon in the tenancy contract. Any use that alters the nature of occupation or exceeds what was contractually permitted may place the tenant in breach of their legal obligations. The law makes it clear that a tenant must maintain the property responsibly and may not make changes to its use, structure, or occupancy without the landlord’s consent where such changes go beyond ordinary residential use.

Importantly, the law draws a distinction between normal residential occupation and subletting or assigning the property to third parties. A tenant is expressly prohibited from renting out the apartment, or any part of it, to another person, or from subleasing the property, unless written permission has been obtained from the landlord. This restriction applies regardless of whether the arrangement involves rent being charged or not, and regardless of whether the third party is a relative or not.

That said, the temporary stay of a close or extended family member does not automatically amount to subletting or an unlawful assignment of the property. Short-term accommodation of a visiting relative—such as a cousin or sibling staying briefly while settling into the city—would generally be viewed as incidental to normal residential use, provided it does not result in overcrowding or a change in the character of occupation.

However, where the stay becomes prolonged or effectively permanent, the situation may be treated differently. Long-term residence by extended family members can raise issues of unauthorised occupancy, particularly if the tenancy contract limits occupation to the named tenant and their immediate family. Many tenancy agreements in Dubai include specific clauses regulating the number of occupants or the stay of extended family members, and these contractual terms are enforceable.

As a result, tenants are advised to carefully review the additional terms and conditions attached to their tenancy contracts. If a relative intends to reside in the apartment for an extended period, it is prudent to notify the landlord or managing agent and seek clarity, especially where the contract imposes occupancy restrictions. Doing so can help avoid disputes, potential eviction notices, or allegations of breach of the tenancy agreement.

In short, while short-term stays by relatives are generally permissible, longer-term arrangements may require the landlord’s written consent, depending on the contract and the nature of the occupation.

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