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Dubai, UAE

How can I get the keys back and make the tenant leave after the lease contract expires?

Hello,

My tenant in Dubai is not moving out or handing the keys to me after the expiry of his lease contract.

What can I do to get my keys and make him leave?

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Future Vision Advocates Legal Consultancy
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27 Feb 2025, 10:42

Greetings,

If your tenant refuses to vacate or return the keys after the lease expires, you can take legal action through the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) in Dubai.

You may file an eviction case to obtain an official order for the tenant to leave. The process typically includes:

1. Serving a Legal Notice: A formal notice should be sent to the tenant.

2. Filing a Case with RDC: If the tenant does not comply, you can initiate an eviction case.

3. Enforcement of Eviction Order: Once a ruling is issued, authorities can enforce the eviction.

To proceed efficiently and protect your rights, book a consultation with us to handle your case.

We are happy to assist you and provide the best legal services that meet your needs.

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Al Fahad Legal Consulting
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27 Feb 2025, 10:49

Dear Questioner,

Thank you for reaching out regarding the tenant issue!

To address the situation legally, here are the steps you should follow:

- Send a Formal Notice:

First, you should send a formal written notice to your tenant, requesting them to vacate the property and return the keys. Ensure that you give them at least 30 days' notice, as required by law, after the expiry of the lease.

- File a Complaint with the Rent Dispute Center:

If the tenant refuses to vacate, you can file a complaint with the Rent Dispute Center (RDC) at the Dubai Land Department. The RDC will review the case and issue a decision based on the evidence, such as the expired lease agreement and proof of non-payment (if applicable).

3. Eviction Order:

If the Rent Dispute Center rules in your favor, they will issue an eviction order, giving the tenant a deadline to vacate the property. If the tenant still refuses to comply, you can request the Dubai Police to enforce the eviction.

Please ensure that all documentation (lease agreement, notices, and communications with the tenant) is in order. This will be crucial if the matter goes to court or the Rent Dispute Center.

If you need further assistance or wish to take immediate legal action, feel free to reach out.

Best regards,

Mohammed Salah

Legal Consultant

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Al Hajeya Alnoobi Advocates and Legal Consultants
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27 Feb 2025, 14:11

Hello,

In Dubai, a lease contract does not automatically end upon expiry. According to Article 6 of Law No. 26 of 2007, as amended by Law No. 33 of 2008, the lease automatically renews for the same terms unless either party gives notice of termination as agreed in the contract.

Please provide more details about your case, such as whether you notified the tenant before expiry, so I can guide you accurately.

If you need legal assistance, feel free to contact me.

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Dar Al Haqooq Legal Consultancy
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28 Feb 2025, 03:54

Dear Property Owner,

Thank you for your inquiry regarding the situation with your tenant, who has not vacated the property or returned the keys after the expiration of the lease contract.

I understand this is a challenging situation, and I'm pleased to provide you with professional guidance on the appropriate steps to take under Dubai's tenancy laws.

1. Formal Eviction Notice:

- Draft a formal eviction notice clearly stating the reason for eviction (expiration of lease contract).

- Have the notice notarized by a Notary Public in Dubai.

- Serve the notice to the tenant via registered mail or through the Notary Public to ensure legal validity.

2. Legal Filing:

- If the tenant does not comply with the eviction notice, file a case with the Rental Dispute Settlement Center (RDSC) in Dubai.

- Submit all relevant documentation, including:

a) The lease agreement

b) Ejari certificate

c) The served eviction notice

d) Any correspondence with the tenant regarding this matter

3. RDSC Proceedings:

- Attend any hearings as scheduled by the RDSC.

- If the RDSC rules in your favor, they will issue a legally binding eviction order.

4. Enforcement of Eviction:

- Should the tenant still refuse to vacate after the RDSC ruling, you may request assistance from local authorities to enforce the eviction order.

5. Important Considerations:

- Refrain from any attempts to forcibly remove the tenant or change locks without proper legal authorization, as this could lead to legal repercussions.

- Be prepared for the possibility that the process may take some time, depending on the RDSC's caseload and the specific circumstances of your case.

Given the complexity of tenancy disputes, I strongly recommend consulting with a legal professional specializing in Dubai real estate law. They can provide personalized advice and guide you through the process to ensure all actions are in full compliance with local regulations.

If you require any further clarification or assistance, please don't hesitate to ask us.

Yours sincerely,

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Rashid Khalil Obaid Advocates and Legal Consultancy
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28 Feb 2025, 06:10

If you have served a proper eviction notice, then the tenant is responsible to vacate the property upon expiry. If he is not willing to cooperate, then you may file a dispute with RDC for the eviction of the tenant.

We will let you know the procedures in detail.

Kindly share your WhatsApp number to discuss this further.

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Ibrahim Al Banna Advocates & Legal Consultants
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1 Mar 2025, 23:50

If your tenant is refusing to vacate after the lease expiry, you have the legal right to take action.

Under Dubai’s rental laws, you can file an eviction case with the Rental Dispute Center (RDC) to obtain an official eviction order.

This process ensures that the tenant is legally required to hand over possession of the property.

Additionally, if the tenant remains in the unit unlawfully, you may also be entitled to claim compensation for their continued stay beyond the lease term.

To proceed efficiently and ensure the correct legal steps are taken, I recommend seeking professional legal representation.

Feel free to reach out to me via WhatsApp or phone, and I’ll guide you on the next steps to regain possession of your property.

Best regards,

Suhail Rana

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