Whether you are visiting for a holiday, moving for work, or looking to invest, Dubai is often called the “city of gold” as it attracts people from all walks of life. The city is well-prepared to welcome a large number of newcomers. For most people, whether staying short-term or long-term, renting a place is often the most practical choice.
The government has introduced clear rules about tenant rights and responsibilities to make renting more straightforward and fair. These guidelines are designed to protect both tenants and landlords.
While the rights offer protection against unfair treatment, renters also have certain duties they are expected to carry out. In this guide, we will walk you through the key tenant responsibilities in Dubai, so you know exactly what is expected if you plan to rent a home here.
What is the Significance of Rights and Tenants Responsibilities in Dubai?
Understanding your rights and responsibilities as a tenant is important for a smooth renting experience in Dubai.
Dubai’s government has put in place a balanced system to make life easier for both tenants and property owners. The tenant rights are there to protect renters from problems like unfair eviction or poor living conditions. If a landlord doesn’t follow the rules, tenants have the right to take legal action.
But fairness goes both ways. That is why there are also responsibilities that every tenant must follow. These rules help create a fair environment where both parties know what they are entitled to and what they must do.
Tenant Responsibilities in Dubai as Per the Law
Dubai’s rental law clearly outlines what tenants need to do. It is up to each renter to understand and follow these rules.
Let’s go over the main responsibilities renters have in Dubai. This way, you will have a solid understanding of what’s expected from you during your tenancy.
1. Paying a Security Deposit
Article 20 of the Dubai Rental Law states:
“When entering into a Lease Contract, the Landlord may obtain from the Tenant a security deposit to ensure maintenance of the Real Property upon the expiry of the Lease Contract, provided that the Landlord undertakes to refund such deposit or remainder thereof to the Tenant upon the expiry of the Lease Contract.”
When renting any kind of property in Dubai, whether it is commercial or residential, tenants are required to pay a security deposit to the landlord. This deposit is refundable and is meant to cover any possible damages during the rental period.
The purpose of this deposit is to give the landlord a level of protection. For example, if a tenant fails to return the property in the condition it was given, the landlord can use part of the deposit to pay for repairs.
Unfortunately, not every landlord plays fair. Some may try to keep part of the deposit without a valid reason. To avoid this, tenants should know the proper steps to take when asking for their deposit back at the end of the rental contract.
2. Return the Property in The Same Condition as Received
Dubai Tenancy Guide Article 21 states:
“Upon the expiry of the term of the Lease Contract, the Tenant must surrender possession of the Real Property to the Landlord in the same condition in which the Tenant received it at the time of entering into the Lease Contract except for ordinary wear and tear or for damage due to reasons beyond the Tenant’s control. In the event of dispute between the two parties, the matter must be referred to the Tribunal to issue an award in this regard.”
When the rental agreement ends, the tenant must return the property in the same condition it was in at the start of the lease. Natural wear and tear is acceptable and not the tenant’s responsibility.
To avoid disputes, it is a good idea to include clear terms in the Ejari contract about what is considered “ordinary wear and tear.” This protects both the tenant and the landlord and helps ensure a smooth handover at the end of the lease.
3. Ensure Timely Rent Payments and Property Maintenance
Article 19 of the Dubai Tenancy Guide states:
“The Tenant must pay the Rent on due dates and maintain the Real Property in such a manner as an ordinary person would maintain his own property. Without prejudice to the Tenant’s obligation to carry out the restorations that have been agreed upon or which are customary for Tenants to undertake, the Tenant may not make any changes or carry out any restoration or maintenance works to the Real Property unless so permitted by the Landlord and after obtaining required licences from the competent official entities.”
One of the most important responsibilities tenants have is to pay rent on time, as clearly mentioned in the rental contract. Late payments can lead to legal action or even eviction.
In addition to paying rent, tenants should also take good care of the property, just like they would take care of their own home. If you plan to make any changes or renovations, always get permission from the landlord first. Also, make sure to get any necessary approvals from the proper authorities before starting work.
Making changes without approval can lead to property damage or legal trouble, and in some cases, it might even lead to an eviction notice.
4. Pay Government Fees and Taxes
Article 22 states:
“Unless the Lease Contract states otherwise, the Tenant must pay all fees and taxes due to Government entities and departments for use of the Real Property as well as any fees or taxes prescribed for any sub-lease.”
In most cases, it is the tenant’s responsibility to pay any government-related fees or taxes linked to the property. This can include things like opening a DEWA account or paying the housing fee charged by the municipality.
If the lease says otherwise, the landlord may take on some of these costs. Always check your contract so you know what you are responsible for.
5. Don’t Sublease Property Without Landlord’s Approval
Article 24 states:
“Unless otherwise agreed by the parties to the Lease Contract, the Tenant may not assign the use of or sub-lease the Real Property to third parties unless written consent of the Landlord is obtained.”
Tenants are not allowed to sublease a property or let someone else use it without written permission from the landlord. This rule applies to all types of properties.
If you plan to use the rental property for something like a short-term holiday rental or want to let someone else live there, you must first get the landlord’s approval in writing. Ignoring this rule can result in legal consequences or eviction.
6. Refrain from Alterations When Returning the Property
Article 23 of Dubai Rental Law clearly states:
“Unless otherwise agreed by the parties, upon vacating and surrendering possession of the Real Property, the Tenant may not remove any leasehold improvements made by the Tenant. “
When moving out, tenants are not allowed to remove any changes or improvements they made to the property unless this was clearly agreed upon in the contract.
This includes things like custom installations, built-in furniture, or other modifications. Taking them out can lower the value or appearance of the property, which is why landlords often prefer to keep them.
If you want to keep certain alterations, it is better to discuss this in advance and add a clause in the contract stating that you can remove them when the lease ends.
Remember, knowing your rights and responsibilities can help you negotiate better and avoid legal conflicts.
