UAE Rent Law 2025: Key Changes Every Tenant and Landlord Should Know

Whether you’re a seasoned investor, a first-time tenant, or a landlord managing properties, understanding the UAE Rent Law 2025 is crucial for staying ahead in today’s dynamic real estate market. The year 2025 has brought significant updates to tenancy regulations in Dubai and Ajman, designed to protect tenant rights while ensuring landlords maintain property values.

This comprehensive guide breaks down the key updates, explains how they affect landlords and tenants, highlights Ajman-specific practices, and answers some of the most searched questions.

What’s New in UAE Rent Law 2025?

The UAE’s rental landscape is evolving to reflect a more balanced approach between tenant protection and landlord flexibility. Here are the major updates introduced in 2025:

1. Rent Increase Caps (Dubai & Ajman)

Reference: Guided by Article 10 of Dubai Law No. (26) of 2007 (as amended by Law No. (33) of 2008)

Article 10: “The landlord may not increase the rent unless under the rules, percentages, and procedures set by the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA).”

In Dubai, according to Article 10, the RERA Rent Index continues to guide legal rent increases. According to the RERA rent law in Dubai, a landlord can increase rent only if the current rent is at least 11% below the market average for similar properties in the same area.
This regulation remains unchanged in 2025, reinforcing tenant protection against sudden spikes. The maximum rent increase allowed in Dubai is capped as follows:

• Less than 10% below market = No increase
• 11–20% below = 5% increase
• 21–30% below = 10% increase
• 31–40% below = 15% increase
• More than 40% below = 20% increase

In Ajman, rent increases are governed by ARRA (Ajman Real Estate Regulatory Authority). While there is no codified rent index, landlords must:

• Give a 90-day written notice before contract renewal for any increase.
• Ensure increases are reasonable and supported by market trends or property improvements.

✅Ajman does not have a centralized rent cap system like Dubai. However, ARRA issues regulatory guidelines and policy updates to maintain the rental balance.

Looking for an apartment for rent in Ajman? Contact Improperties.

2. Tenant Eviction Laws – Clearer, Fairer, Firmer

Reference: Governed by Articles 25 & 26 of Dubai Law No. (26) of 2007 (amended by Law No. (33) of 2008)

Article 25(2): “The landlord may demand eviction of the tenant before expiry of the tenancy contract if the landlord wishes to demolish the property, reconstruct it, or use it for personal use… provided a 12-month written notice is served through the notary public or registered mail.”

Article 26: “If the property is sold, the new owner may only evict the tenant for specific legal reasons and must provide the same 12-month notice.”

One of the most common questions is: Can a landlord evict a tenant in Dubai or Ajman?

In Dubai, as per the Landlord Tenant Law Dubai, evictions are allowed only under strict conditions such as:

• Personal use of the property by the owner
• Property sale
• Major renovations that require the unit to be vacant

Even in these cases, a 12-month written notice through a notary public or registered mail is mandatory.

In Ajman, ARRA’s rules are similar. Evictions must be supported by genuine reasons (such as property redevelopment or personal use). Notices must be served well in advance, with proof of intent.

3. Security Deposits and Fees – Ajman’s Updated Practices

Reference: UAE Civil Code (Federal Law No. (5) of 1985), Article 742 governs the general use of deposits:

Article 742: “If a deposit is made by the lessee to guarantee the return of the leased property in good condition, the lessor must return the deposit unless it is proved that the lessee caused damage beyond normal use.” 

Security deposits are common, but Ajman’s approach has slightly evolved in 2025.

• While there’s no fixed percentage in Ajman, it is now customary to charge one month’s rent as a deposit.
• Aqaar, one of the leading real estate firms in Ajman, has started collecting deposit amounts based on rent brackets. For example, higher-end apartments may have slightly higher deposits.
• Additionally, tenants are now responsible for utility deposits like:
  • FEWA (electricity and water) deposits
  • Ajman Sewerage fees

All charges must be disclosed in the tenancy contract to avoid hidden fees.

4. Maintenance Responsibilities – What’s the Law in Ajman and Dubai?

Reference: Article 16 of Law No. (26) of 2007

Article 16: “Unless otherwise agreed, the landlord shall be responsible for the maintenance works necessary for the leased property… to keep it in usable condition during the lease term.”

According to the article, in Dubai, maintenance is usually divided:

• Landlord handles major repairs (e.g., structural issues, plumbing).
• Tenant handles minor wear and tear or replacements (e.g., light bulbs, filters).

In Ajman, it’s more contractual:

• The tenancy agreement defines the roles clearly.
• Typically, major maintenance is handled by the property management company on new or renewal agreements.
• Minor repairs are the tenant’s responsibility, unless otherwise agreed.

Tip: Always request a maintenance clause in writing to avoid confusion.

Rights of Tenants in the UAE (2025)

Understanding your rights as a tenant in Dubai or Ajman can help you make informed decisions:

• Right to Renew: You have the right to renew your lease unless the landlord has legal grounds for eviction.
• Right to Fair Rent: Any rent increase must comply with RERA or ARRA regulations.
• Right to Maintenance: Landlords are obligated to maintain the property in a livable condition.
• Right to Privacy: Landlords cannot enter the property without prior notice.
• Right to Written Notice: Whether it’s a rent increase or eviction, proper notice must be served.

Best Practices for Landlords and Tenants in 2025

Whether you’re renting out or moving into a property, these best practices will help avoid disputes:

For Tenants:

• Always read your contract carefully, especially the sections on renewal, eviction, and maintenance.
• Request a maintenance clause.
• Keep proof of payments and communications with landlords.

For Landlords:

• Stay updated with Dubai and Ajman rental laws.
• Use the RERA Rental Index to decide on rent hikes in Dubai.
• In Ajman, issue proper notices for changes and evictions.
• Be transparent with fees (security deposit, sewerage, FEWA).

Ajman: Rising in Tenant Interest

As rents in Dubai continue to rise, many tenants are looking toward Ajman for affordable alternatives. Ajman offers:

• Lower rents as compared to Dubai and Sharjah
• Flexible security deposit rules
• Well-regulated by ARRA
• Proximity to Dubai for commuters

Tenants seeking value-for-money apartments are increasingly exploring Al Rashidiya, Al Bustan, and Ajman Corniche areas.

🔗 Check out apartments for rent in Ajman on Improperties.

Final Thoughts

The UAE Rent Law 2025 aims to bring clarity, fairness, and stability to landlords and tenants alike. While Dubai’s rules are more structured under RERA, Ajman offers flexibility with growing regulatory backing from ARRA. Whether you’re renting in a high-rise in Dubai or a waterfront flat in Ajman, understanding your rights and responsibilities is essential.

For expert help with finding, renting, or managing your property in Dubai or Ajman, reach out to Improperties—your trusted real estate partner.

FAQs

Can a landlord increase the rent every year in Dubai?

Yes, but only according to RERA’s rental index. If the property is not significantly underpriced compared to the market rate, rent cannot be increased.

What is the maximum rent increase as per RERA?

Up to 20%, depending on how much lower your rent is compared to the market average.

Can a landlord refuse to renew a lease in Dubai?

Yes, but only for legal reasons. These include property sale, personal use, or major renovation. A 12-month notice is mandatory.

Can tenants refuse viewings in Dubai or Ajman?

Yes, unless it’s mentioned in the contract. Otherwise, landlords must get tenant approval before showing the property.

What are the tenant’s rights regarding maintenance in Ajman?

Major maintenance is handled by the property owner or management company. Minor maintenance (like replacing faucets or minor electrical issues) is usually the tenant’s responsibility.