What Are the Rent Increase Rules in Dubai?
Dubai's landlord-tenant relationship is governed by Law No. 26 of 2007, as amended by Law No. 33 of 2008, alongside other applicable regulations.
Under Decree No. 43 of 2013, the maximum permitted rent increase at renewal depends on how far the current rent falls below the average rental value of comparable properties.
This means a landlord cannot automatically apply any increase they choose. The applicable rental index, notice requirements and tenancy agreement must be considered.
The DLD's Smart Rental Index, introduced in January 2025, also uses a building classification system to assess rental values. Factors include building quality, facilities, maintenance-related features and other property characteristics.
For the latest assessment of your property, use the official DLD Rental Index.
How Much Can a Landlord Increase Rent in Dubai?
Under Decree No. 43 of 2013, the maximum permitted increase ranges from 0% to 20%, depending on how far the current rent falls below the average rental value of comparable properties.
The following limits apply under the decree:
- Up to 10% below the average rental value: No increase.
- 11% to 20% below: Up to 5%.
- 21% to 30% below: Up to 10%.
- 31% to 40% below: Up to 15%.
- More than 40% below: Up to 20%.
These percentages are maximum limits, not automatic rent adjustments. The property's eligibility under the applicable rental valuation mechanism and the required notice must also be considered.
For example, a landlord cannot assume that a 10% increase is permitted simply because the tenancy contract is being renewed. The property's current rent must be assessed against the relevant rental value.
You can read the full Decree No. 43 of 2013 for the legal framework.
How to Check Your Rent Increase Using the DLD Rental Index
The DLD Rental Index helps tenants and landlords check rental values and assess whether a property qualifies for a rent increase.
To check your property's rental value, follow these steps:
- Visit the official DLD Rental Index.
- Enter your tenancy contract's expiry date.
- Select the applicable property type and area.
- Provide the other requested details, such as the number of bedrooms or rooms, depending on the property category.
- Enter your current annual rent and submit the required information.
- Review the rental information and any applicable increase displayed by the service.
The information requested may vary depending on the property type and the calculator's available options.
Use the result to assess your proposed renewal rent. If your landlord requests a different amount, ask how the increase was calculated and compare the proposal with the official result.
Keep in mind that advertised rents for similar properties may not determine the permitted increase for your specific unit. The applicable index and official assessment are more relevant than asking prices alone.
Is 90 Days' Notice Required for a Rent Increase in Dubai?
Generally, yes. Under Article 14 of Dubai's tenancy law, either party wishing to amend the tenancy contract must notify the other party at least 90 days before the contract expires, unless otherwise agreed.
This requirement is particularly important when a landlord proposes a rent increase at renewal.
The DLD's published guidance on the Smart Rental Index states that a rent increase will apply only when the property qualifies under the applicable index and the landlord has provided the required notice. If the landlord fails to give notice at least 90 days before expiry, the increase will not apply under that published mechanism.
If you receive a notice close to your renewal date, check your tenancy agreement and the relevant DLD guidance before accepting the revised rent. If the circumstances are unclear, seek clarification from the DLD or an appropriate legal adviser.
For additional information, consult the DLD's official rental FAQs.
What Can Tenants Do If They Disagree with a Rent Increase?
If your landlord proposes an increase that appears inconsistent with the Rental Index or notice requirements, you can take a few practical steps before renewal.
1. Check the official Rental Index
Review the result for your property and current annual rent. Keep a copy of the information displayed for reference.
2. Review your tenancy agreement
Check the contract expiry date, any agreed notice provisions and the terms relating to renewal.
3. Keep written records
Save your tenancy agreement, the landlord's notice, relevant correspondence, rent payment records and Rental Index results. These documents may be useful if the disagreement continues.
4. Ask your landlord for clarification
If the proposed increase differs from your understanding of the applicable rules, request an explanation in writing. Discussing the calculation early may help both parties understand the issue before the contract expires.
5. Seek guidance if the issue remains unresolved
You can contact the DLD for information about the applicable procedure. If the disagreement cannot be resolved, the Rental Disputes Settlement Centre (RDSC) may be able to address the dispute through the relevant process.
The appropriate next step depends on the circumstances, so avoid assuming that every disagreement will have the same outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dubai Rent Increase Rules
Can my landlord increase my rent by 20% in Dubai?
A 20% increase is the maximum under the percentage framework in Decree No. 43 of 2013 when the current rent is more than 40% below the average rental value of comparable properties. The property's eligibility under the applicable rental index and the required notice must also be considered.
Can a landlord increase rent without giving 90 days' notice?
Generally, amendments to a tenancy contract require at least 90 days' notice before expiry, unless the parties have agreed otherwise. The DLD's published guidance states that a rent increase will not apply under its mechanism if the required notice is not given. Check your contract and the applicable rules if you believe the notice was late.
Does the DLD Rental Index cover all residential areas in Dubai?
The DLD states that the Smart Rental Index covers residential areas across Dubai, including special development zones and free zones. However, the information and fields available through the service may depend on the property category. Check the official calculator for your unit.
Where can I raise a rent increase dispute in Dubai?
You can contact the DLD for guidance or approach the Rental Disputes Settlement Centre if the disagreement remains unresolved. Keep your tenancy agreement, written notices and Rental Index results available when seeking assistance.
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Understanding Dubai's rent increase rules can help you prepare for contract renewal, review a proposed adjustment and make more informed housing decisions.
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Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Rental regulations, official indices and administrative procedures may change. The applicable rules and outcome may depend on your tenancy agreement and individual circumstances. Consult the latest official DLD guidance or an appropriate legal adviser for advice about your situation.
