Q: Dear Sir/Madam, My landlord’s appointed management company reached out to me regarding the renewal of the tenancy contract. The building’s management informed me (verbally) that the apartment is blocked in DLD as the owner has pending service charges. I confirmed and saw the apartment blocked in DLD. Should I give my cheques for the new contract before this issue is settled? Will I be able to register the renewed Ejari? What happens if I don’t give the cheques until the case is resolved? Is there any legal issue for me? I don’t want to risk paying money when the contract is not officially registered in DLD.

Q: I was staying in an apartment in Abu Dhabi for 6 years. This year I decided to shift the apartment. I gave 51 days' notice in place of 60 days (2months) for not renewing my contract. The landlord company forced me to deposit 9 days rent and took all of my security deposit as a penalty for short notice period without my agreement. Now, they are refusing to give a receipt for 9 days rent and my security deposit settlement.

Q: I am renting an apartment right now in Dubailand. The rental term ends by 28th of February. I am flying back to my home country on April 6th and I don't want to look for another stay for the last two months. My landlord wouldn't mind when I stay until April 6th but he and I both don't know if it's legal and what do we need to do to make it binding between us. Thanks and Best Regards

Q: Can building management legally restrict customer access after specific hours, such as closing the main entrance at 10 PM? My lease agreement does not specify operating hours and we have traditionally operated until 11:30 PM. What are my legal options to address this new policy?

The provisions of this Law apply to real property leased out in the Emirate of Dubai, including vacant and agricultural lands, but excluding hotel establishments and real property provided by natural or legal persons as accommodation to their employees at no charge.

Provisions of this Law supersede articles (2), (3), (4), (9), (13), (14), (15), (25), (26), (29), and (36) of Law No. (26) of 2007 Regulating the Relationship between Landlords and Tenants in the Emirate of Dubai. 

This Decree establishes a specialised judicial system to hear rent disputes and develops the procedure for determination of such disputes through an expeditious and simple process for the purpose of realising social and economic stability for all persons involved with the real property rental and other related sectors.