Dubai Tenants’ Rights Explained: When Eviction is Allowed and How the RDC Safeguards Residents

Evictions in Dubai are permitted only under specific legal circumstances, with strong protections in place to prevent arbitrary or unfair removal of tenants. The Rental Disputes Center (RDC) oversees all rental disputes, ensuring transparency, efficiency and adherence to the emirate’s tenancy regulations.

 

Strong legal protection for tenants

 

Dubai’s tenancy laws ensure that residents cannot be evicted without legitimate reasons. Factors such as family stability, employment locations and children’s schooling are taken into account when disputes arise, reinforcing the emirate’s commitment to safeguarding tenants’ rights.

 

The RDC also supports tenants through awareness programmes, hotlines and online resources, helping residents understand their rights and ensuring equal treatment under the law. Compensation mechanisms are available in applicable cases to protect tenants from financial or personal hardship.

 

When landlords can request eviction before lease expiry

 

Eviction before the end of a tenancy contract is permitted only under limited, legally defined conditions. These include:

 

• Non-payment of rent: Failure to pay rent within 30 days of receiving an official notice, unless otherwise agreed.
   
• Unauthorised subleasing: Subleasing without written consent from the landlord. Both the tenant and subtenant may be evicted, though compensation claims may be made between parties.
   
• Illegal or improper use: Using the property for unlawful activities or in a manner that violates public morality or order.
   
• Commercial unit vacancy: Leaving a commercial property unoccupied for 30 consecutive days or 90 non-consecutive days within a year, unless otherwise specified in the contract.
   
• Property damage: Making dangerous alterations or causing damage through negligence or intentional acts.
   
• Violation of permitted use: Using the premises for purposes other than those agreed upon or in violation of building and land-use regulations.
   
• Structural risk: If the property is at risk of collapse, supported by a technical report approved by Dubai Municipality.
   
• Breach of contractual terms: Failing to comply with lease obligations or legal requirements within 30 days of receiving a formal notice.
   
• Government redevelopment: If the property must be demolished or reconstructed due to directives issued by government authorities.
   

Mandatory formal notification
 

For all evictions prior to lease expiry, landlords are required to inform tenants through a Notary Public or registered mail, ensuring proper documentation and adherence to due process. This structured approach helps protect tenants from abrupt or unlawful eviction and reinforces the RDC’s role in maintaining a balanced and fair rental ecosystem in Dubai.

 

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