Can a landlord in Dubai charge a 3-month rent penalty for short notice to vacate?

The penalty clause is illegal because it represents an excessive amount and exceeds what Dubai law stipulates for terminating a lease. The law allows penalty clauses, but they must be reasonable and comply with Dubai rental law.

Hello, dear.

Yes, Dubai's rental law requires that either party to the contract notify the other party at least 90 days before the expiration of the contract to vacate the property.

For more information, please contact me on WhatsApp.

I understand your concern, and it’s important to handle this matter very carefully, as drug-related offenses in the UAE are treated very seriously, but there are still options available depending on the exact facts of your husband’s case.

If the charge is “intent to promote or use illegal drugs,” it generally falls under Federal Decree-Law No. 30 of 2021 on Combating Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances.

Here’s a brief idea of what may happen and what you should do next:

Possible Result:

If it is proven that he intended to use drugs personally, the sentence can range from fines to imprisonment (up to 2 years), though courts now often consider rehabilitation or deportation instead of long jail terms for first-time users.

However, if the prosecution claims intent to promote or sell, it becomes a serious criminal offence, and the penalties can be much harsher — potentially long-term imprisonment or even life imprisonment, depending on the quantity and evidence.

What You Should Do:

Immediately appoint a lawyer who can access the case file, see the exact charge, evidence, and chemical report.

The lawyer can apply for bail (if not yet convicted) or work on reducing charges from “promotion” to “personal use,” which can significantly reduce punishment.

If the case has already resulted in a conviction, an appeal or request for sentence reduction may still be possible.

Every detail — the arrest report, quantity, lab results, and confession (if any) — makes a big difference in how the case can be defended.

I can review your husband’s situation, check what stage the case is in, and advise on the most practical legal steps, including applying for bail, sentence reduction, or deportation request if applicable.

Please reach out to me directly on WhatsApp or call at [------------], so we can discuss the case privately and plan the next move.

Be advised that under Dubai tenancy law, a penalty clause for failing to give 90 days’ notice is generally enforceable if it is clearly stated in the contract and reasonable.

In your case, the clause imposing 3 months’ rent plus AED 1,000 may be valid, but you may challenge it if you can prove you vacated properly or provided notice.

Please share your WhatsApp number so we can guide you in detail and assist you properly.