Transparency and efficiency are the core values of the UAE rental laws updates for 2025, and tenants and landlords in Dubai and Abu Dhabi need to stay informed. These updates aim to create a fairer rental market, especially for resolving rental disputes and protecting both parties’ rights.
If you’re a tenant seeking your dream home or a landlord managing rental units, here’s what you need to know about the latest changes and how to navigate them smoothly.
1. Annual Rent Cap Adjustment
In 2025, the UAE government revised the annual rent cap system. In Dubai, rent increases are now tied more closely to market rates using a dynamic rental index. In Abu Dhabi, landlords must give 90 days’ notice before any rent increase, and the hike must be justifiable by current market values.
These measures aim to reduce rental disagreements and create a predictable market. If you feel your rent increase is unfair, you have the right to file a case with the rental dispute center Dubai.
2. Eviction Rules Are Now Stricter
Landlords now face stricter rules for eviction. In Dubai, eviction notices must be sent via registered mail or notary public, with a minimum of 12 months’ notice for non-renewal of contract or personal use of the unit.
Failure to follow proper procedure can be challenged at the Dubai rental dispute settlement centre. This update gives tenants more confidence in long-term housing arrangements.
3. Unified Tenancy Contract Requirement
All rental agreements in Dubai and Abu Dhabi must now follow a unified format registered through government-approved platforms. This move ensures all contracts meet legal standards and helps reduce tenant landlord disputes.
Tenants or landlords who experience issues with the new contracts can consult a rental dispute lawyer for legal advice.
4. Faster Dispute Resolution via Rental Committees
The Rental Dispute Center Dubai has upgraded its system to offer faster online case filing, quicker hearing schedules, and better mediation services. Cases that previously took months may now be resolved in weeks. For complex issues, a rental dispute attorney can represent your case before the Dubai rent committee.
Some tenants are unaware that the Rental Dispute Center Dubai contact number and location are listed publicly, and the website now supports filing rental dispute cases in Dubai online.
5. Security Deposit Rules & Damage Claims
Under the new law, landlords are required to return the security deposit within 30 days of lease termination unless valid damage has been caused. Tenants can challenge unfair deductions at the rental dispute centre with help from a lawyer for rental agreement.
This reform encourages fair dealings and reduces the number of tenant disputes arising at the end of a lease.
6. Commercial Lease Changes
Commercial tenants also benefit from 2025 changes. New rules offer more clarity on lease terms, renewal conditions, and early termination rights. Businesses facing issues can consult a lease agreement attorney.
In case of unresolved issues, a lawyer commercial lease can guide you through mediation or court.
Key Differences Between Dubai and Abu Dhabi Rental Law Updates
The fundamental differences in rental laws between Dubai and Abu Dhabi persist in 2025, and some new developments have further shaped these distinctions. While both emirates are part of the UAE and share some overarching federal principles, their specific regulatory frameworks for renting property remain distinct.
Dubai Rental Laws (as of 2025):
- Smart Rental Index (New): Dubai has launched an advanced RERA Smart Rental Index, powered by AI. It gives more accurate rent valuations based on location, property quality, and building ratings. This makes rent increases more fair and transparent.
- Tiered Rent Caps: Rent hikes depend on how much your current rent differs from market value. For example, if your rent is 21–30% below market, the landlord can raise it by up to 10%.
- 90-Day Notice Still Required: Landlords must give at least 90 days’ notice for any rent increase or contract changes. Otherwise, the increase is invalid.
- 12-Month Eviction Notice: For most eviction cases, like selling the unit or personal use, landlords must give a full 12-month notice in writing.
- Mandatory Ejari Registration: Every rental contract must be registered through Ejari; a must for resolving rental disputes and protecting your rights.
- Unified Tenancy Contract: All rental agreements in Dubai must follow the same official format, helping reduce misunderstandings and disagreements.
Abu Dhabi Rental Laws (2025)
- Tawtheeq System: Like Ejari in Dubai, Abu Dhabi uses Tawtheeq to officially register all rental contracts.
- 5% Rent Cap for Renewals: Abu Dhabi sticks with a 5% maximum increase for renewing rental contracts, regardless of how low the current rent is.
- 60-Day Notice Rule: Landlords must give at least 60 days’ notice for any changes or eviction requests.
- Easier Non-Renewal Option: Unlike Dubai’s stricter rules, Abu Dhabi landlords can choose not to renew the lease once it ends, as long as they give proper notice.
- Maintenance Rules: Generally, landlords handle major repairs while tenants take care of minor maintenance, but this can vary based on your lease.
- Occupancy Limits Apply: Abu Dhabi enforces rules around how many people can legally live in a rented space.
What to Do in Case of a Dispute
If you’re facing a rental dispute in Dubai, here’s a quick action plan:
- Review your contract: Make sure it’s registered and compliant with new 2025 standards.
- Try informal resolution: Speak directly with the other party to resolve the issue.
- Hire legal support: Seek advice from a rental dispute lawyer, especially if the matter involves complex lease terms or eviction.
Why Work with Naser Abdulla Almuharrami Advocates & Legal Consultants?
When facing a rental dispute, it’s essential to have expert legal support and that’s where Naser Abdulla Almuharrami Advocates & Legal Consultants stands out.
If you’re dealing with;
- Eviction notices
- Unfair rent increases
- Security deposit issues
Our rental dispute lawyers work to protect your rights and achieve fair outcomes. Their knowledge of the latest 2025 rental regulations gives you a serious advantage in navigating complex disputes efficiently and confidently.
Conclusion
The 2025 rental law update brings welcome change to the real estate landscape in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. With better transparency, faster dispute handling, and stronger legal protections, both tenants and landlords are now better equipped to handle issues and avoid misunderstandings.
If you’re unsure how the law applies to your situation, legal advice is your strongest asset when navigating tenant and landlord disputes. For more information, visit the Rental Dispute Center Website or consult us now!
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