Dubai rent increase rules
| Your rent compared with the RERA average | Maximum increase |
|---|---|
| Up to 10% below average | 0% |
| 11% – 20% below | 5% |
| 21% – 30% below | 10% |
| 31% – 40% below | 15% |
| More than 40% below | 20% |
Example
You pay AED 90,000 and the index shows AED 110,000 for similar units. Your rent is (110,000 − 90,000) ÷ 110,000 = 18.2% below average, so the maximum increase is 5%: up to AED 94,500 for the next year.
Checklist before renewing
- Check the date the landlord’s notice arrived – it must be at least 90 days before expiry.
- Pull the index result for your exact building, unit type and size and keep a screenshot.
- Renew your Ejari registration once the new contract is signed.
- If you plan to move instead, give the notice your contract requires (often 60–90 days).
Wondering if it’s time to buy instead? Run the numbers in rent vs buy.
The calculator applies the bands of Decree No. 43 of 2013 as used by the RERA calculator. If DLD publishes a new index method or rules for your contract, the official calculator takes priority.
Frequently asked questions
How much can a landlord increase rent in Dubai?
Under Decree No. 43 of 2013, no increase is allowed if your rent is no more than 10% below the average for similar units. The cap is 5% if it is 11–20% below, 10% if 21–30% below, 15% if 31–40% below, and 20% if more than 40% below.
How much notice must the landlord give?
Any change to the tenancy terms, including a rent increase, must be notified at least 90 days before the contract expires (Law No. 26 of 2007 as amended).
Where do I find the average rent?
Use the official RERA rental index / smart rental index on the Dubai Land Department website or the Dubai REST app. Enter your area, property type and size to get the average rent the rules are based on.
What can I do if my landlord demands more?
Try to agree using the official index figure. If you can’t, you can file a case with the Rental Disputes Settlement Centre (RDSC) in Dubai.
Last reviewed: October 2026