Tenant Protection in Dubai’s Property Rental Laws: Safeguarding Against Unjust Evictions

Dubai’s property rental laws protect tenants by regulating the terms under which landlords can reclaim rental properties for personal or family use. According to Article 25(2)(c) of Dubai’s amended rental laws, a landlord wishing to occupy their property for personal use or for a first-degree family member must issue a 12-month eviction notice, attested by a notary public. This rule helps ensure that tenants have adequate notice to find alternative accommodations.

Once the property is reclaimed, Article 26 of the law prohibits landlords from renting out the property to a third party for at least two years in the case of residential properties, and three years for commercial properties. This restriction aims to prevent landlords from exploiting tenants by falsely claiming personal use and then re-renting the property shortly after eviction.

If a landlord violates this two-year rule, the tenant may seek compensation through Dubai’s rental dispute tribunal. By allowing tenants to claim fair compensation, the law holds landlords accountable and ensures that eviction claims for personal use are genuine.

This regulatory measure is part of Dubai’s broader initiative to ensure tenant protection and provide a balanced legal framework for both property owners and renters. For property owners, adhering to these rules requires proper planning and clear intent, while tenants can benefit from the stability these legal safeguards provide.