Most Dubai tenancy contracts run for one year. As the end date gets close, you will either renew, renegotiate or move. Here is how renewal works.
When to start
Start talking to your landlord about three months before the contract ends. If the landlord wants to change the rent or any terms, they must give you 90 days' written notice before the end date. If they do not, the contract is generally renewed on the same terms.
Can the rent go up?
Only within the limits of the RERA Rental Index. The allowed increase depends on how far your current rent is below the average rent for similar homes. If your rent is already at or above the average, there should be no increase at renewal.
Check the maximum with our [RERA index calculator](/tools/rera-index) and read [what landlords can legally charge](/blog/rera-rental-increase-calculator-guide).
Renewal steps
1. Agree the terms — rent, number of cheques and any changes, in writing
2. Sign the renewed contract (or a renewal on the official form)
3. Hand over new cheques — see [Dubai rent cheques explained](/blog/dubai-rent-cheques-explained)
4. Renew Ejari — the registration must be renewed for the new period. You need it for visas, DEWA and many services. Al Firouz can do it for you through our [Ejari service](/ejari)
5. Keep your deposit in place — it normally carries over to the new contract
If you want to negotiate
If you decide to move
Tell the landlord in writing, in line with your contract's notice period, and follow our [moving out checklist](/blog/moving-out-dubai-checklist). Looking for your next home? Browse [homes for rent](/rent).