Being told to leave your home is stressful. Dubai's tenancy law protects tenants from being evicted without a proper reason and proper notice. Here is an overview — for your own case, check your documents carefully and consider legal advice.
At the end of the contract: 12 months' notice
A landlord can ask a tenant to leave when the contract ends for certain reasons, such as:
For these, the landlord must give 12 months' written notice, sent through a notary public or by registered mail. A WhatsApp message or email alone is not this kind of notice.
During the contract
A landlord can seek to end the tenancy before it ends only for specific reasons — for example:
What to do if you get a notice
1. Do not panic — read it carefully and keep a copy
2. Check how it was sent and the date it gives
3. Check the reason against your contract and the situations above
4. Reply in writing if you disagree
5. Keep paying rent as normal
6. If you cannot agree, the matter can go to the Rental Dispute Settlement Centre — read how the RDSC works
Rent increases are separate
A landlord wanting more rent is not a reason for eviction on its own. Increases at renewal follow the RERA Rental Index — see rent increase rules.
Need a new home?
If you do need to move, we can help you find one quickly. Browse homes for rent and use our moving out checklist.