Q: Hi, We are quite new in this country; only a few months. We thought that it is a good opportunity to buy a property without seeking legal advice. Unfortunately, we have attempted to buy a property, but we have ended up having more problems. Currently, we have a dispute with the seller since we have asked our deposit back as the bank valuation came a lot less than the mutually agreed property value. We have also experienced some other issues that have broken our trust in the real estate agent so we simply want to call off and cancel our contract. In the contract, there is a section which sets a condition that if the valuation comes lower than a certain amount, this contract shall be cancelled and the deposit should be returned to us, but unfortunately, the amount is missing there. I was wondering if I still have a valid case to ask my deposit while there isn't a defined amount, but the condition itself is there?

Q: The landlord is not returning the security deposit. I have vacated the apartment that I rent and satisfied all conditions as per the Tenancy Contract (painted the apartment, fixed and cleaned all -- this had been acknowledged in written by landlord's deputy, cancelled all utility services and Ejari and delivered the landlord cancellation forms). Upon returning the keys, the landlord's deputy said he would call me when the security deposit cheque is ready. He never called, my email requests are not answered, my calls are ignored since then. Now already 2 weeks. I do have proof of handing over the security deposit cheque (by the real estate agency that arranged the apartment rental), that it was cached by the landlord and a written acknowledgement that the apartment was handed over with no issues. What is the correct and most effort-time efficient way to make the landlord fulfill his obligations and return the security deposit to me? Thank you, V.

Q: Hi I was looking at a property in Dubai and decided to go ahead with it. They asked for a refundable deposit of AED 14k which they charged on my card and then after checking the place out, I decided not to go ahead with the purchase. Within 3 days of the 7 day period within which I could cancel and get a refund. I had sent a formal refund application and they replied back saying its acknowledged and they would process it. They said banks are closed for the national day and hence would do it a few days later in the first week of December 2018. We are now midway in January 2019 and they still have not paid me back. Can you please help me out here? Thanks

This Bylaw regulates the Real Estate Brokers Register in the Emirate of Dubai. No person may engage in real estate brokerage activities in Dubai unless he is licensed by the competent entities and entered in the register, which is maintained by Dubai Land Department.

The provisions of this Law supersede articles (2) and (11) of Law No. (13) of 2008 Regulating the Interim Property Register in the Emirate of Dubai.