Dubai landlords limited to 20% max rent increase at renewal under Decree 43

Renewing a tenancy in Dubai is governed by Dubai Decree No. 43 of 2013 and the applicable rental index. Landlords can increase rent by zero to a maximum of 20 per cent depending on how far the current rent is below the average market rate. Landlords must provide at least 90 days' written notice of any proposed rent change before the contract expires. The Dubai Rental Disputes Center confirmed that landlords cannot charge a renewal fee, administrative fee, or processing fee when renewing a tenancy contract, nor can they insert such a clause in the contract. Real estate agents may charge a service fee only if specifically hired to provide a service such as negotiating renewal or preparing paperwork, and this must be clearly agreed in a separate agreement. Ejari registration costs (Dh177.75 online or Dh220 at a trustee centre) are official registration fees, not landlord renewal fees. Tenants should verify any proposed rent increase against the RERA rental index and request a breakdown of all additional charges.