Dubai tenants can use RDC 'Offer and Deposit' to protect rent payments during disputes

When a Dubai landlord refuses to accept rent during a dispute, tenants can use the Rental Dispute Centre's Offer and Deposit procedure to formally submit payment through the legal system. The procedure allows tenants to deposit disputed rent with the RDC rather than holding the money while a dispute remains unresolved. To apply, tenants must visit rdc.gov.ae, provide their Emirates ID, tenancy contract, and supporting documentation, and pay fees of Dh50 plus Dh10 Knowledge Fee and Dh10 Innovation Fee (additional charges apply if using a Real Estate Services Trustee). A judge reviews the application and, if approved, the tenant must follow the order and complete the deposit. The deposited rent is then held by the RDC's treasury for the landlord. However, the procedure does not automatically resolve the underlying rent dispute or guarantee renewal on the tenant's preferred terms. Tenants must continue meeting rental obligations and retain payment records, as a pending dispute is not a rent holiday under Dubai tenancy law.