Moving to a new home in Dubai is exciting, but what happens when problems arise with your landlord? 

Many renters find themselves stuck in frustrating situations due to misunderstandings or unclear agreements. A landlord-tenant dispute can cost time, money, and peace of mind. The good news? 

Most of these conflicts can be prevented with the right knowledge and preparation.

This guide will help new renters in Dubai avoid common issues that lead to disputes, understand their legal rights, and know when to seek help from a landlord-tenant dispute lawyer or legal expert.

Understand Your Tenancy Contract in Detail

The tenancy contract is your most important legal document. It outlines your responsibilities and those of your landlord. Before signing anything, read every section carefully. 

Pay close attention to the rent amount, payment terms, maintenance responsibilities, and conditions for renewal or termination. Many tenant and landlord disputes occur simply because tenants didn’t fully understand the contract. 

Don’t hesitate to ask for clarification, and if anything seems unclear or unfair, consult a landlord dispute lawyer to review the document before you commit. So, make sure you know how to get a proper tenancy contract first and use it. 

Register the Contract with Ejari

Dubai requires all tenancy agreements to be registered through Ejari, a system managed by the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA). Ejari registration makes your tenancy legally binding and protects you in case of any landlord dispute.

Failure to register can lead to complications if a tenant-landlord dispute ends up in court. Always ask for a copy of the registered Ejari certificate and keep it safe throughout your lease.

Inspect the Property Before Moving In

Never move into a rental unit without a thorough inspection. Document everything, including damaged fixtures, broken tiles, and paint issues, with photos or videos. Share this documentation with your landlord before you move in.

These steps help prevent later landlord deposit disputes. If you don’t record the condition of the property at the start, the landlord might claim you caused damage when you move out, leading to a landlord-tenant dispute over the security deposit.

Keep All Communication in Writing

It’s common for verbal agreements to lead to misunderstandings. Whether it’s about repairs, rent payments, or changes in tenancy terms, always get confirmation in writing, either through email or a messaging app.

If a tenant and landlord dispute arises, written communication provides evidence. Without proof, it’s your word against the landlord’s. This is where a landlord-tenant dispute solicitor might step in to help, but having documentation always strengthens your case.

Know Your Rights Under Dubai Rental Law

Dubai’s rental laws are designed to create a fair balance between the rights of tenants and landlords. One of the key protections for tenants is that landlords cannot increase the rent without providing at least 90 days’ written notice before the end of the lease term. 

Any rent increase must also comply with the RERA rental index, which sets guidelines based on market rates. Tenants are entitled to the peaceful enjoyment of the property throughout the tenancy, meaning landlords cannot interfere without legal cause. 

Additionally, landlords are generally responsible for major maintenance and structural repairs, unless the lease states otherwise. These regulations help ensure a stable and transparent rental environment in Dubai.

Understanding these rights can help you recognize when a tenant and landlord dispute is developing and take action early.

Handle Maintenance Issues Professionally

One of the most common causes of landlord tenant disputes in Dubai is maintenance. Minor repairs like lightbulbs or clogged drains may be your responsibility, while major repairs, like plumbing or air conditioning failures, usually fall on the landlord.

Always notify your landlord in writing when there’s an issue. If the landlord refuses to make necessary repairs, this could escalate into a landlord dispute, and legal support from a landlord-tenant dispute attorney may be necessary.

Plan Your Exit Smartly

When moving out, give proper notice as per your contract, usually 90 days. Leave the apartment in good condition, return all keys, and request a formal handover inspection. Take photos again and ask for a written record.

This helps avoid landlord deposit disputes, which are among the most frustrating and frequent issues tenants face. Many renters lose part or all of their deposit because they didn’t document the property condition or failed to give proper notice.

When to Involve a Legal Expert

Even the most responsible tenants sometimes face issues that can’t be resolved through direct communication with the landlord. When a landlord-tenant dispute reaches this level, getting legal support isn’t just helpful, it’s often essential.

A qualified legal professional can protect your rights, handle negotiations, and if necessary, represent you in the Rental Disputes Center or civil court.

Here are specific situations where legal help becomes important.

Refusal to Return Your Security Deposit

One of the most common issues leading to landlord-tenant disputes is the wrongful withholding of the tenant’s security deposit. In many cases, landlords keep part or all of the deposit without offering any valid reason or evidence of damage. 

If you’ve left the property in good condition and fulfilled all your obligations, the landlord is required by law to return the deposit.

If your landlord refuses without justification, this becomes a landlord deposit dispute, and you may need a real estate lawyer in Dubai to help you recover the funds legally. A lawyer will review your contract, documentation, & correspond on your behalf to either mediate or take legal action.

Illegal Rent Increases

Dubai rental laws are clear when it comes to rent increases. A landlord must provide 90 days’ notice before increasing rent, and the increase must comply with the RERA rental calculator. Despite this, some landlords attempt to raise the rent without following the law.

If your landlord attempts an unauthorised rent increase, this violates your tenancy rights and could be grounds for a formal tenant-landlord dispute. 

A landlord-tenant dispute solicitor can help you file a complaint with the Rental Disputes Center and ensure that any rent changes follow legal procedures.

Breach of Tenancy Agreement

The tenancy agreement is legally binding for both parties if your landlord fails to uphold their end, whether by ignoring essential maintenance, unlawfully entering the property, or going against terms agreed upon, this qualifies as a landlord dispute that can be challenged legally.

For example, if the landlord agreed to carry out major maintenance or respect your privacy but repeatedly fails to do so, this is a breach of contract. A landlord-tenant dispute attorney can help you take appropriate action and enforce your contractual rights.

Harassment or Threats of Unlawful Eviction

Harassment, intimidation, or threats of eviction without following legal processes are serious issues. In Dubai, eviction can only take place after 12 months’ notice is given in writing and approved by the Rental Disputes Center. Anything outside this process is considered illegal.

If your landlord is making threats, shutting off utilities, or attempting to force you out without due process, seek immediate help from the landlord and tenant dispute solicitors. They can take urgent steps to protect you, stop unlawful actions, and file formal complaints to the proper authorities.

You may need to consult a landlord-tenant dispute lawyer or landlord-tenant dispute solicitor. These professionals can guide you through mediation or represent you in rental dispute cases before Dubai’s Rental Disputes Center.

Whether you’re dealing with a tenant landlord dispute over repairs or a landlord dispute about eviction terms, legal professionals understand the local law and process better than most tenants.

Where to Get Help in Dubai

Dubai’s Rental Disputes Center, under the Dubai Land Department, is the official body for handling all rental disagreements. It offers mediation, arbitration, and court services depending on the complexity of your case.

Before heading there, it’s often wise to speak with a landlord-tenant dispute attorney. They can help you organize your evidence, understand your options, and increase your chances of a fair outcome.

Conclusion

A landlord-tenant dispute can easily disrupt your life in Dubai, but it doesn’t have to. With the right approach, reading contracts, documenting everything, and knowing your rights, you can avoid most conflicts altogether. 

And if issues do arise, acting quickly and seeking expert legal advice can help resolve them smoothly. For professional assistance with any rental dispute, reach out to Ayesha Aljaziri Lawyers & Legal Consultants. 

Our  team specializes in Dubai tenancy law and offers straightforward, honest legal support. You can contact us at +971 5594 83605 or by email at info@aljaziriadvocates.com for help with your case.