December 23, 2025
Drafting, reviewing, and managing a tenancy contract in Dubai may seem straightforward. Yet, many disputes at the Dubai Rental Dispute Centre (RDC) arise from issues that could have been avoided with accurate documentation.
Both tenants and landlords rely on the contract as the primary source of rights, obligations, and protection under Dubai's rental laws. Even a small oversight can create complications later, including delays, legal challenges, additional costs, and disputes that strain relationships.
This blog outlines the most common mistakes found in tenancy contracts in Dubai, why they happen, and how both parties can avoid them.
A tenancy contract is a legally binding agreement between a landlord and a tenant that specifies the terms of leasing a property. It outlines key details, such as rent amount, duration, payment schedule, property condition, and responsibilities. In Dubai, a contract must comply with the laws set by the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA).
The contract is the central reference point if questions or disagreements arise, making accuracy and clarity essential.
Once both parties sign the tenancy contract, it must be registered through Ejari. An active Ejari registration validates the contract under Dubai's rental system and is required for:
Without an active Ejari, the contract may not be recognised in certain legal procedures, such as filing a case with the RDC, leaving both parties unprotected in the event of a dispute.
You can also refer to our previous blog on the differences between a tenancy contract and an Ejari certificate.
Dubai's rental regulations rely on clear, accurate, and complete contracts. Any missing or inconsistent information can invalidate parts of the agreement, lead to Ejari rejection, or prevent one party from enforcing their rights.
Proper documentation ensures that both sides can rely on the rules set by RERA regarding rent increases, notice periods, repairs, dispute handling, and renewals.
How the Dubai Rental Dispute Centre (RDC) Works
The RDC is responsible for resolving rental conflicts in Dubai. When a dispute is submitted, the centre reviews the contract, Ejari records, supporting evidence, and compliance with RERA regulations. Depending on the case, outcomes may include:
If the contract has missing details, incorrect information, or no Ejari registration, the RDC may reject the case or delay proceedings. Utilities activation can also be delayed when Ejari is missing or inaccurate, further complicating the situation.
Below are the most frequent errors and how both tenants and landlords can avoid them.
Why it's a problem:
Without an active Ejari, it may be difficult to apply rental laws, and the case might not be accepted at RDC until the Ejari is registered.
How to avoid it:
Register the Ejari immediately after signing the tenancy contract. Both parties should keep a copy of the certificate.
Why it's a problem:
Errors in the property address, DEWA premise number, or building information may lead to Ejari rejection or contract complications.
How to avoid it:
Verify all property details using official documents before signing. Cross-check DEWA premise numbers and unit information.
Why it's a problem:
Unclear rules on pets, subleasing, or short-term letting can lead to conflicts and potential eviction if the contract terms are violated.
How to avoid it:
Clearly define all property-use conditions in the tenancy contract before signing. Both parties should agree on what is and isn't allowed.
Why it's a problem:
Unclear cheque dates, or missing payment breakdowns are among the leading causes of rental disputes.
How to avoid it:
Specify rent amount, number of cheques, due dates, bank details, and penalties for late payments in writing.
Why it's a problem:
Disputes often arise when the contract does not clearly specify who is responsible for repairs, annual maintenance, or major replacements.
How to avoid it:
Add a detailed addendum to the contract that clearly outlines each party's responsibilities, repair cost limits, and expected response times.
Why it's a problem:
Dubai rental laws require written notice for key actions, such as rent increases or non-renewal. Missing the notice deadline can make the request invalid.
How to avoid it:
Follow RERA timelines. For example, rent increase notices must be issued at least 90 days before contract expiry.
Why it's a problem:
Only written, signed, and registered terms are enforceable. Verbal promises cannot be used at the RDC.
How to avoid it:
Document all agreements in writing and ensure they are included in the signed contract.
Why it's a problem:
Missing documents make it difficult to confirm responsibilities, renew the lease, or file a complaint.
How to avoid it:
Both parties should keep digital copies of all documents. Using a digital tool like Habi can help store and organise them.
Why it's a problem:
If renewal conditions are not specified, misunderstandings may arise regarding new rent amounts, renewal dates, or updated terms. This can lead to confusion and disputes between the parties involved.
How to avoid it:
Clearly define renewal procedures, including who will be responsible for handling renewal documents (agent, landlord, or tenant). Specify notice periods, which are governed by strict legal requirements, and outline rent review rules based on RERA's calculator to ensure transparency and compliance.
Why it's a problem:
Disputes about damage or deposits often stem from missing check-in/check-out reports.
How to avoid it:
Record property condition with photos and written details during move-in and move-out, and have both parties sign the report for added assurance.
Here is a quick checklist for both tenants and landlords:
Habi’s digital property management solutions make it easy for landlords and tenants to manage their tenancy agreements. With Habi, you can create and renew tenancy contracts, register Ejari, and ensure all contracts are accurate, compliant, and properly documented, all done digitally. Our platform also helps organise paperwork and provide guidance on regulatory requirements, ensuring a smooth and legally sound tenancy process.
It outlines the rights and responsibilities of both the landlord and the tenant and is used as the primary legal reference in the event of a dispute.
Registering the contract with the Ejari system is the most critical step. It legalises the tenancy and is required to access the protections of Dubai's rental laws and the Rental Dispute Centre.
No. Only terms explicitly written into the signed tenancy contract or a formal signed addendum are legally enforceable in Dubai.
Contact the other party immediately to rectify the error. An amendment must be drafted, signed, and then the corrected information must be updated within the Ejari system to ensure all official records are accurate.
