Understanding the situation
Dubai has a dedicated framework for tenancy relationships and a dedicated body for resolving disputes between landlords and tenants. Disputes can arise for many reasons: disagreement over a proposed rent increase, questions about who is responsible for a repair, disagreement about ending a tenancy, or disputes about the security deposit or the condition of the property at handover.
How a particular dispute is assessed depends on the terms of the tenancy contract, whether it is registered, the correspondence exchanged between the parties, and the applicable tenancy legislation and procedure in force at the time.
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Possible options
Which combination of these is appropriate depends on the nature of the disagreement, whether the relationship is ongoing, and what documentation exists.
- Direct discussion between landlord and tenant to clarify the disagreement.
- A written notice setting out the issue and what is being requested.
- Referral of the dispute to Dubai's dedicated rental dispute resolution body.
- A negotiated settlement, documented in writing.
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Practical steps
- 1Gather the registered tenancy contract and any amendments.
- 2Collect correspondence relevant to the dispute, including dates.
- 3Identify precisely what outcome is being sought.
- 4Consider a written notice before any formal referral, unless urgency requires otherwise.
- 5Keep records of any inspection reports, photographs or receipts related to the dispute.
- 6Seek advice on the applicable procedure before referring the matter formally.
