One of the best things about Dubai real estate is the supremacy of real estate law in the emirate. The government of Dubai protects buyers, sellers, renters, investors, and everyone involved in real estate transactions.
Despite strict measures, disagreements and issues can arise. One of the common issues is rental disputes between tenants and landlords. Ideally, both parties must try to solve the dispute without involving legal bodies. Still, if the issue persists, here is a detailed guide on how to solve a rental dispute in Dubai.
How to Solve a Rental Dispute in Dubai—Step by Step
It is great to be flexible enough to reach an outcome through negotiation, but it is equally important to be aware of the legal route. Here is a detailed breakdown of how to solve rental disputes in Dubai.
1. Lodge a Rental Dispute
There are two ways to Lodge a rental dispute in Dubai:
- Visit the RDC main office or
- Lodge the dispute online through the RDC Portal or DLD’s website.
If you go to the RDC office, make sure to bring all the required documents. A typist there will help you file your complaint.
If you choose to file online, you will need to enter your details, upload documents, pay fees, and join hearings through tele-litigation if required.
2. Resolving the Dispute
Once you file the dispute, the next step is to try solving the rental issue by involving the parties concerned. Being flexible at this stage will help you avoid further legal processes, which can be very tiresome.
3. First Instance Hearing
If the first attempt to resolve the dispute does not work, the next step is a first-instance hearing. At this stage, both parties present their claims to the court in a document for the judge to review. The judge listens to arguments from both sides and makes a decision based on the evidence provided.
4. Filing an Appeal
If either party disagrees with the initial decision, they can appeal against it. The complainant has 15 days from the judgment to do so. Usually, real estate lawyers handle this process by submitting necessary documents to the relevant authorities.
5. Appeal to the Court of Cassation
If the dispute involves more than AED 330,000, it can be taken to the Court of Cassation. Concerned parties can file an appeal within 30 days after the Court of Appeal’s decision. The Court of Cassation reviews the case and issues a final judgment based on the evidence presented.
6. Receiving Damages/Compensation
If the court awards damages or compensation to one party, it is important to collect these amounts immediately. Most importantly, both parties must comply with the court’s decision to avoid further issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to negotiate rent in Dubai?
As a tenant in Dubai, you can negotiate rental amounts by highlighting your qualities as a good tenant, presenting your smooth history as a tenant, and showing willingness to sign long-term rental contracts.
How do I file a complaint against my landlord in Dubai?
Get in touch with the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) if your landlord doesn’t respond or if the problem persists unresolved. RERA oversees real estate matters in Dubai, and you can contact them through their website or by visiting their office.
Summing it up
The real estate law in Dubai vigilantly protects all parties involved in property transactions. Despite this, disputes, like rental disagreements, can arise. It is highly recommended for concerned parties to resolve these issues before legal involvement. However, if needed, here is a step-by-step guide:
- Lodge your dispute at the RDC office or online, ensuring all documents are ready.
- Attempt to settle the matter directly to avoid lengthy legal proceedings.
- If unresolved, proceed to a first-instance hearing where both sides present their cases.
- Either party can appeal the decision within 15 days, handled by real estate lawyers.
- Disputes over AED 330,000 can be taken to the Court of Cassation for final judgment.