Q: My eviction notice and tenancy contract will come to an end on 5 May 2024. The reason for eviction is "renovation". The landlord has not submitted any supporting documents to show that the property will be unlivable during the renovation or any approval from Dubai Municipality. I went to the Trustee Center in Al Manara and they said that I can't open a case against the eviction until after the expiry, however, that doesn't seem right. I need advice, please. Thank you

Q: Dear Sir/Madam, My landlord had originally said that I could stay in the villa during the minor renovation (inside) and construction of a new building outside. He put it in writing and agreed that the tenancy value of the property would not increase significantly for two years based on these improvements. I then received an eviction notice due to renovation. I have lived in the same villa for 18 years. My question is: At what point does the landlord need to have the attested Dubai Municipality report to show that the planned renovation makes the property uninhabitable, as this has not been shown anywhere yet?

Q: I bought a property in January 2022. I gave a 12 months' eviction letter through the notary under the major renovation clause. We are now 14 days before the eviction day and the tenant refuses to leave (the reason is that he needs 1 more month as he bought a property that is not handed over yet). I have already the contractor company booked to start the work. What are my rights in this case and how can I have the tenant leave on time?

Q: Dear All, I own an apartment, and a year ago, I sent a legal notice for renovation to the tenant. However, the tenant is refusing to leave. I have my drawings, and the company is ready to proceed with the work, but the tenant still refuses to vacate. What should I do? I know I need a technical maintenance report from Dubai Municipality. How can I obtain it, and where? Thank you all!

An interview-format article covering the topic of residential retail properties pertaining to the liability for property maintenance and the repercussions of defaulting on rent payments in the UAE. This is from the legal podcast of lawyer Ludmila Yamalova, the founder of Lawgical with LYLAW.

The relationship between tenants and landlords is regulated in Dubai by Law No. 33 of 2008 Concerning the Relationship Between Landlords and Tenants in the Emirate of Dubai. The arising rental disputes are referred to Rental Disputes Settlement Centre (“RDSC”) created by Decree No. 26 of 2013 to reconcile between the parties and reach an amicable settlement or seek a final judgment issued and enforced by the RDSC.

In Dubai, property owners often seek to enhance their investments through renovations. However, evicting tenants to facilitate these renovations involves specific legal requirements and considerations. Understanding these regulations is crucial for landlords looking to avoid potential disputes and ensure compliance with Dubai’s rental laws.

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. 

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.

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.