Repairs are one of the most common causes of landlord–tenant disagreements in Dubai. The good news: the basics are clear, and most problems are solved by agreeing them in writing.
The general rule
Under Dubai's tenancy law, the landlord is responsible for maintaining the property and repairing defects that affect the tenant's use of it — unless the contract says otherwise. So always start with your tenancy contract and any addendum.
Usually the landlord's job
Often the tenant's job
Many contracts make the tenant responsible for minor maintenance, for example:
Some contracts set a cost limit — the tenant pays for small repairs up to a certain amount, the landlord above it. Check yours.
How to report a repair
1. Report it in writing (email or WhatsApp) with photos and the date
2. For urgent issues — water leaks, no cooling in summer, electrical danger — call as well
3. Give access at a reasonable time for the repair
4. Keep a record of what was done and when
Our free [maintenance request form](/tools/maintenance-request) helps you send a clear, dated request.
If repairs are not done
Send a written reminder. If the landlord still does not act on a repair that is their responsibility, you can take the matter to the Rental Dispute Settlement Centre (RDSC). Avoid deducting money from rent yourself — agree it first.
For landlords
Fixing problems quickly keeps good tenants and protects your property. Our [maintenance cost estimator](/tools/maintenance-cost-estimator) gives a rough guide to common repair costs, and our [landlord guide](/blog/landlord-guide-renting-out-property-dubai) covers the rest.