Q: We have a valid Ejari and tenancy contract. Our landlord has sold the property to new owners. They are now asking us to evict the property… A: The new owner cannot force you to vacate immediately. To evict a commercial tenant, the new landlord must: Send at least 12 months' written legal notice…

Dubai, UAE

New owners demand eviction: What rights do I have after investing heavily in my cafe?

Hello,

I am a café owner. We have a valid Ejari and tenancy contract.

We came to know that our landlord has sold the property to new owners, and they are now asking us to evict the property.

What are my rights? I have so much cost involved in my business!

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Rashid Obaid

Rashid Khalil Obaid Advocates and Legal Consultancy

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17 Jul 2025, 10:01

Hello,

Eviction is Only Allowed in Certain Legal Cases.

The new owner cannot force you to vacate immediately. To evict a commercial tenant, the new landlord must:

1. Send at least 12 months' written legal notice via a notary public or registered mail, and

2. Have a valid legal reason for eviction (as per Article 25), such as:

- Personal use of the property (must prove it),

- Major demolition or renovation works,

- Violation of tenancy conditions, or

- Expiry of the contract with refusal to renew under valid grounds.

17 Jul 2025, 10:03

If your business has involved significant investments (fit-outs, branding, permits), and you are being forced to vacate without cause before the contract ends, you may be eligible to:

- Claim damages for losses,

- Refuse eviction until the contract expires, or

- Negotiate compensation (buyout) with the new owner.

What You Should Do Now:

Do not vacate or sign any agreement without legal consultation. Request to see official eviction notice (has it been sent through notary or registered mail?).

Gather documents:

- Valid Ejari and tenancy contract,

- Business license, and

- Proof of investment in the property (invoices, fit-out contracts, etc.).

If they insist on eviction, ask them to:

- Follow Article 25(2) of the Tenancy Law (12-month legal notice), and

- Provide a written reason for eviction.

Please feel free to share your WhatsApp number for direct follow-up and support.

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