Dubai Rent Increase Regulations Established by RERA
The Role of RERA in Regulating Rent
The Dubai Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA), under the Dubai Land Department (DLD), ensures fairness in Dubai’s rental market. RERA defines rent increase limits that protect tenants from steep hikes while allowing landlords a fair return.
Understanding these legal limits is crucial for both tenants and landlords to avoid disputes and make informed decisions.
What Are the RERA Rent Increase Limits?
RERA rent limits are based on:
- The RERA Rental Index
- Your current rent
- The average market rent for similar properties in the same area
These guidelines maintain balance and transparency across the real estate sector.
How is the Rent Increase Percentage Determined?
RERA compares your current rent with the average rent using the official RERA Rent Calculator via the Dubai REST App.
Here’s how increases are allowed:
- Less than 10% difference: No increase
- 11%–20% difference: Up to 5% increase
- 21%–30% difference: Up to 10% increase
- 31%–40% difference: Up to 15% increase
- More than 40% difference: Up to 20% increase
Use the RERA Rent Calculator to check your situation.
Where to Check the Rent Increase Legality
To verify a proposed increase:
- Access the Dubai Rental Index
- Select property type and area
- Enter your current rent and Ejari number
- Review the result
Need help? Contact us here to interpret your results.
Legal Notice Requirements for Rent Increase
As per Law No. 26 of 2007, amended by Law No. 33 of 2008, landlords must give:
- 90 days’ notice before increasing rent
- Notice in writing, via registered mail, email, or official notary
If not followed, the increase may be legally void.
How Tenants Can Challenge an Unjust Rent Increase
If the rent hike is unfair:
- File a case with the Rental Dispute Settlement Center
- Provide your Ejari contract and RERA calculator report
Want to ensure your documents are in order? Verify and download your Ejari here.
Common Misconceptions About Rent Increases
- “Landlords can increase rent yearly.” → False. Only if allowed by RERA limits.
- “Market rent increase means my rent increases.” → Not necessarily. Legal notice and index compliance still apply.
- “Any increase amount is allowed.” → Incorrect. Only within RERA brackets.
How Ejari Plays a Role in Rent Control
Ejari registration is crucial for:
- Recording rental history
- Using RERA calculator
- Tenant protection during disputes
Need Ejari registration or renewal? Start here.
Best Practices for Landlords and Tenants
Tenants Should:
- Always use the RERA Index before agreeing to an increase
- Require 90 days’ written notice
- Keep Ejari up to date
Landlords Should:
- Use the official calculator
- Provide timely written notice
- Register all leases with Ejari
FAQs About Rent Increase Limits in Dubai
Can my landlord increase rent without notice?
No. A 90-day written notice is required.
How often can rent be increased?
Only at renewal, and only within RERA limits.
What if my landlord exceeds RERA limits?
You can file a case with the Rental Dispute Center.
Does location affect rent limits?
Yes. The RERA Index varies by location.
Is Ejari required to verify rent increases?
Yes. Your Ejari data helps calculate legality.
Stay Legally Compliant with RERA and Ejari
Dubai’s rental market depends on trust, law, and transparency. By understanding RERA’s rent increase rules and keeping your Ejari updated, you can avoid unnecessary disputes.
Need assistance understanding your rent cap or tenancy documents? Visit Ejari Support for full real estate compliance and tenancy services.