أسئلة وأجوبة
What can a divorced mother with two kids do when facing utility cutoff threats and court delays?
I have hired a lawyer for enforcement purposes. I am divorced with two kids, and the kids are Emirati. I submitted all the receipts and rent that is due, and I am still waiting for a response from the court; it has been more than two weeks.
The landlord has sent a warning letter as the rent is late for one month now, and they have threatened to cut off the electricity and water, saying it’s part of the system and that this will be disconnected automatically as the contract has not been renewed.
I checked online at the court system, but still nothing has been done to get the money from the father as he is incapacitated and in a rehab center.
What can I do? I have already paid a lot of expenses with the lawyer.
You must submit an urgent alimony request.
Dear Questioner,
Thank you for sharing these details!
I understand how stressful this situation is. Please note the following key points under UAE law:
Utility Disconnection
- A landlord cannot legally disconnect electricity or water to pressure a tenant for payment or to force eviction.
- Such action is considered an “illegal eviction method” under Dubai Tenancy Law. If threatened, you may file an urgent complaint with the Dubai Rental Dispute Centre (RDC) or with Dubai Municipality to prevent any disconnection.
Court Enforcement Delay
- Enforcement of a judgment can sometimes take several weeks while the Execution Court serves notice and attempts to collect funds from the debtor.
- Because the father is in a rehabilitation centre and incapacitated, the court may need to locate attachable assets or income, which can slow the process.
Practical Steps You Can Take Now
- Document the Threats: Keep a copy of the landlord’s warning letter and any messages.
- Urgent Application: Through your lawyer, you can request an urgent order from the RDC to prevent disconnection and to compel the landlord to keep utilities running.
- Alternative Assistance: If cash flow is critical, you may approach the Family Guidance or Social Services Department for interim child-support assistance, given that the children are Emirati.
Next Steps with Your Lawyer
- Ask your lawyer to file an urgent petition (طلب مستعجل) to the Execution Court, highlighting the children’s status and the essential need for utilities.
- Request regular written updates from the Execution Department on the progress of the attachment of funds or assets from the father.
Please keep all receipts and communications as evidence.
Kind regards,
Mohammed Salah
Legal Consultant
Dear questioner,
Under Dubai's rental laws (specifically Law No. 26 of 2007 and its amendments), a landlord is not permitted to cut off essential services like water and electricity to force a tenant to vacate, even if the tenant is late on rent or the contract has expired.
Such an action is considered harassment and a violation of your rights; you can file a police complaint against the same.
If you need more details, kindly share your WhatsApp number.
The landlord cannot legally disconnect utilities without court approval; notify them formally.
Follow up immediately with your lawyer for a status update and potential interim enforcement.
Document all payments and communications.
Explore temporary court orders for financial support if the father is incapacitated.
