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Ending Tenancy Contract Guide
July 24, 2025
Property Guide
At LUX Living, we understand that ending a tenancy agreement is a significant process that must be handled with clarity, legal precision, and professionalism. Whether you’re a tenant preparing to vacate a property or a landlord managing a transition, it’s essential to follow the legal procedures set forth by the Dubai Land Department (DLD) and Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA).
Here is our streamlined, legally informed guide to ending a tenancy contract in Dubai:
Register the Tenancy Contract with RERA
All tenancy contracts must be registered with RERA through the Ejari system. This registration ensures legal protection for both the tenant and landlord. Failing to register the contract may result in the Dubai Rent Dispute Settlement Centre refusing to hear any future disputes.
Rent Price Adjustments
If the tenant and landlord do not mutually agree to a change in rent before the contract renewal date, either party has the right to escalate the matter to the Rental Dispute Settlement Centre. In such cases, the party filing the complaint must pay a non-refundable fee equivalent to 3.5% of the annual rent, subject to a minimum of AED 500 and a maximum of AED 20,000. A judgment will be passed only after an in-person visit to the dispute center.
Address Property Damages Before Vacating
Tenants are responsible for ensuring the property is returned in its original condition, barring reasonable wear and tear. Any damages should be repaired prior to vacating. If not, the landlord has the legal right to deduct the cost of repairs from the security deposit.
Provide 90 Days’ Notice for Non-Renewal or Rent Increase
A 90-day written notice must be provided by either party for the non-renewal of the tenancy contract. This notice period also applies if the landlord intends to increase the rent, under RERA’s rental index. Without formal written or electronic communication, the contract is automatically renewed under the same conditions and rental value as the previous year.
In the event of early termination initiated by the tenant, a written notice of 90 days is required, and the tenant is obligated to pay a penalty equivalent to two months of rent from the date of move-out.
Provide 12 Months’ Legal Notice for Eviction
In cases where the landlord intends to:
Sell the property,
Use it for personal or immediate family (first-degree) use, or
Demolish or significantly renovate the property,
A 12-month written eviction notice is mandatory. This notice must be delivered through a notary public or registered mail and must comply strictly with Dubai’s tenancy laws. The notice is non-negotiable and cannot be bypassed.
Settle All Utility Accounts
Before vacating the premises, tenants are required to obtain final clearance from all relevant utility providers, including:
Dubai Electricity & Water Authority (DEWA),
District cooling (chiller), and
Gas providers (if applicable).
A copy of these clearance letters must be shared with the landlord or their authorized agent to ensure a smooth handover and return of the deposit.
Maintain Documentation and Proof
All communications, including notices, confirmations, repair records, and clearance letters, should be retained by both parties. Proper documentation can be critical in case of a future dispute presented to RERA or the Rental Dispute Settlement Centre. It is recommended to maintain digital and hard copies of all correspondence throughout the tenancy lifecycle.
Final Thoughts
Ending a tenancy contract in Dubai is a structured process governed by RERA and DLD regulations. At LUX Living, we support our clients—both tenants and landlords—with tailored guidance and full legal transparency. Whether you’re transitioning to a new residence or managing a property turnover, our team ensures that every step is handled with professionalism and care.
For assistance with tenancy matters or to explore new rental or investment opportunities in Dubai’s dynamic real estate market, connect with your dedicated LUX Living advisor today.