Dubai introduced new tenancy laws in 2025 that require landlords to give tenants a minimum 90-day notice before terminating rental agreements. This change provides better protection for renters and clearer guidelines for landlords.

What Is the 90-Day Notice Rule?

The new law requires landlords to provide at least 90 days' written notice before terminating a tenancy agreement. This applies to all rental properties in Dubai and gives tenants more time to find alternative accommodation.

Key Changes:

• Minimum 90-day notice period for all tenancy terminations

• Written notice requirement with proper documentation

• Enhanced tenant rights to challenge unfair terminations

• Clear procedures for both landlords and tenants

• Dispute resolution support through RERA

Why This Law Was Introduced

Market Reality:

• 60% of Dubai residents live in rental properties

• Previous notice periods varied and were often too short

• Housing market competition makes finding alternatives difficult

• Tenant stability needed protection

• Clear guidelines were required for all parties

Benefits:

• For Tenants: More time to find new accommodation

• For Landlords: Clear procedures and legal protection

• For Market: Increased stability and transparency

Who Must Follow This Rule

Applies To:

• All residential rental properties in Dubai

• Landlords and property management companies

• Tenancy agreements signed before and after 2025

• Both individual and corporate landlords

Exceptions:

• Commercial properties (different rules may apply)

• Hotel apartments with short-term stays

• Furnished apartments with specific terms

• Breach of contract situations (different procedures)

Valid Reasons for Termination

Landlord Can Terminate For:

Property Sale:

• Landlord wants to sell the property

• Buyer requires vacant possession

• Must provide proof of sale intention

Personal Use:

• Landlord or family member needs the property

• Must be genuine personal use

• Cannot re-rent immediately after

Major Renovations:

• Substantial renovation or reconstruction needed

• Must provide detailed renovation plans

• Tenant may have right to return

Tenant Violations:

• Non-payment of rent

• Breach of lease terms

• Damage to property

• Illegal activities

What's NOT Valid:

• Arbitrary rent increases beyond legal limits

• Personal disputes with tenant

• Wanting to rent to someone else at higher rent

• Minor maintenance that doesn't require vacancy

How to Give Proper Notice

For Landlords:

Step 1: Prepare Documentation

• Written notice stating termination reason

• Supporting evidence (sale agreement, renovation plans, etc.)

• Proper legal format following RERA guidelines

• Clear termination date (minimum 90 days from notice)

Step 2: Deliver Notice

• Registered mail with tracking

• Email to tenant's registered address

• Hand delivery with signed receipt

• Keep proof of delivery method and date

Step 3: Follow Up

• Confirm tenant received notice

• Answer any tenant questions

• Prepare for potential challenges

• Maintain professional communication

Required Information in Notice:

• Tenant's full name and address

• Property address and details

• Reason for termination

• Termination date (90+ days from notice)

• Landlord's contact information

• Reference to relevant law

Tenant Rights and Options

When You Receive Notice:

Step 1: Verify Notice Validity

• Check if reason is valid under the law

• Confirm 90-day minimum notice period

• Review your lease agreement terms

• Gather relevant documents

Step 2: Understand Your Options

• Accept the termination and start looking for new accommodation

• Challenge the notice if you believe it's invalid

• Negotiate with landlord for extended time or other arrangements

• Seek legal advice if needed

Step 3: Take Action

• Document everything related to the notice

• Start property search if accepting termination

• File complaint with RERA if challenging

• Maintain rent payments during notice period

Grounds to Challenge Notice:

• Invalid reason for termination

• Insufficient notice period (less than 90 days)

• Improper delivery of notice

• Discriminatory reasons for termination

• Landlord bad faith (wanting higher rent from new tenant)

Rental Increase vs. Termination

New Rules for Rent Increases:

Dubai Rental Index:

• Objective calculation based on market rates

• Maximum increase limits based on current vs. market rent

• Transparent methodology for determining fair rent

Tenant Appeal Rights:

• Challenge excessive increases through RERA

• Provide comparable property data

• Request rental index calculation review

• Get support from Tenant Support Centers

When Landlords Cannot Terminate:

• For refusing reasonable rent increase within index limits

• To circumvent rental increase restrictions

• Without valid legal grounds

• During lease term without breach

Maintenance Responsibilities

Landlord Responsibilities:

• Major repairs: Plumbing, electrical, structural

• Building systems: AC, elevators, fire safety

• Common areas: Lobbies, parking, pools

• Response timeframes: Urgent vs. routine repairs

Tenant Responsibilities:

• Minor maintenance: Light bulbs, basic cleaning

• Damage caused by tenant: Repairs due to misuse

• Routine upkeep: Keeping property in good condition

• Reporting issues: Promptly notify landlord of problems

Dispute Resolution:

• Document all maintenance requests

• Keep records of landlord responses

• Use RERA Tenant Support Centers for guidance

• Escalate unresolved issues through proper channels

Digital Documentation Requirements

New Technology Standards:

• Digital lease agreements becoming standard

• Online payment tracking and receipts

• Electronic notice delivery options

• Digital maintenance request systems

Benefits:

• Easier record keeping for both parties

• Faster communication and responses

• Transparent payment history

• Automated reminders for important dates

RERA Tenant Support Centers

Free Services Available:

• Tenancy law guidance and explanations

• Dispute resolution assistance

• Document review and advice

• Mediation services between landlords and tenants

How to Access:

• Visit RERA offices in person

• Call support hotlines for guidance

• Use online portals for information

• Schedule consultations for complex issues

Common Mistakes to Avoid

For Landlords:

• Giving insufficient notice (less than 90 days)

• Invalid termination reasons

• Improper notice delivery methods

• Failing to provide supporting documentation

For Tenants:

• Ignoring valid notices and not preparing

• Stopping rent payments during notice period

• Not documenting communications with landlord

• Missing deadlines for challenging notices

Tips for Smooth Transitions

For Landlords:

• Plan terminations well in advance

• Maintain good tenant relationships

• Provide clear, honest communication

• Follow all legal procedures exactly

For Tenants:

• Start property search early when receiving notice

• Maintain property condition during notice period

• Keep all communications with landlord documented

• Know your rights and available support

Professional Guidance

The new tenancy laws create more complex procedures for both landlords and tenants. Many people benefit from professional guidance to:

• Understand their rights and obligations

• Navigate notice procedures correctly

• Handle disputes effectively

• Ensure compliance with new regulations

Experienced agents can help both landlords and tenants understand the new requirements and avoid costly mistakes.

Ready to Navigate Dubai's New Tenancy Laws?

The 90-day notice requirement and enhanced tenant rights create a more balanced rental market. Understanding these changes helps both landlords and tenants protect their interests and comply with the law.

Connect with experienced brokers who understand Dubai's new tenancy laws and can guide you through rental procedures and tenant rights.

Disclaimer: The content provided in this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or investment advice. The inclusion of any real estate agency, individual agent, or service is not an endorsement, recommendation, or guarantee of quality or performance. Readers are encouraged to conduct their own research, consult with licensed professionals, and verify credentials or certifications directly with the Dubai Land Department (DLD) or appropriate regulatory bodies before making any real estate decisions.

BrokeryHero and the authors of this article disclaim any liability for decisions made based on the content herein.