Q: Hello, I seek guidance regarding an issue I am facing with the air conditioning in the common areas of the building where I reside. The facilities management of my building recently decided to turn off the air conditioning in all common areas, including the reception lobby and corridors on all floors. Upon inquiring about this issue, I was informed by the management that they do not have any air conditioning set up in these areas. This contradicts the fact that the air conditioning was functioning correctly in previous years but was discontinued this year. Considering the implications of the high temperatures during the summer months in Dubai, I am concerned about the legality of not having air conditioning available in all common areas. I would greatly appreciate your guidance on the following matter.

Q: Hi, Good afternoon! I rented an apartment and paid the agreed amount, not knowing that the air conditioning is not working. I even requested a fan, but the landlord is giving me the silent treatment. Can I file a case against him?

Q: Hello, My landlord disconnected the water and electricity for the 4th time this week because my signature didn't match the cheque. What I can I do? And he is threatening me now if I will not pay until tomorrow by cash he will change the locks and he will deport me.

Q: Hello, My Dubai landlord (Omani) switched off the AC cooling in my rented flat after demanding a rent increase of over 50%. Even after winning the case at RDC and renewing Ejari through the court, he still has not restarted the AC cooling. I have sent emails and filed a police complaint, but it's getting hotter again, and the AC has been off since last October. Please suggest how to penalize him as he disrespects UAE laws.

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.

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 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.