Questions & Answers
What are the rules of renewal after receiving legal notice for the remaining period after deadline?
I received a legal notice in November 2024. My renewal is due on Sep 1, 2025. At the moment, my rent is 36K. Market price is 42k - 52K.
Meanwhile, the apartment is sold and the new owner, through the old agent, is asking us to leave or pay for the following 3 months a 54k pro rate (which would mean 54k/4).
Shouldn't the increase be limited to what the RERA calculator is allowing, just 10%?
Dear G,
Thank you for your inquiry.
Under Dubai tenancy law (Law No. 26 of 2007 and its amendments), rent increases must comply with the RERA Rental Index Calculator, and the maximum allowable percentage depends on the gap between your current rent and the market average, as per RERA’s guidelines.
Key points in your situation:
Rent Increase Limits
Even if the property is sold, the new owner steps into the existing tenancy agreement and is bound by the same rent control rules.
They cannot impose an increase beyond what RERA allows (for you, it seems around 10%, if the calculator confirms it).
Notice Period
A landlord must give 90 days’ written notice before the end of the tenancy if they want to change terms (including rent increase) or request eviction, unless both parties agree otherwise.
Pro-Rated High Rent Demand
The request to pay a 3-month pro-rated rent based on 54K is not aligned with the law unless this increase is supported by RERA calculations and a proper 90-day notice.
Eviction Rights
The landlord can only evict for the reasons listed under Article 25 of the tenancy law (e.g., personal use, sale, major renovation), and must give 12 months’ notice via notary public or registered mail.
Recommendation:
Check your exact allowable rent increase on the official RERA Rental Index. If their demand exceeds that, you can refuse it and, if necessary, file a case with the Dubai Rental Dispute Center.
Greetings,
Mohammed Salah
Legal Consultant
Dear questioner
Yes, the increase should be according to the RERA calculator and does not need to vacate the apartment because of the 12 months of notice.
If you need more details, kindly share your WhatsApp number.
