Renewal notices in Dubai often come with a new, higher rent. The good news for tenants is that increases are capped by law, and many landlords ask for more than they are allowed. This guide explains how the cap works so you can check your own number in a couple of minutes.
The short answer
Your landlord can only raise the rent if you are paying noticeably less than the market average for similar homes, as set by the Dubai Land Department's rental index. If your rent is within 10% of that average, no increase is allowed. The maximum possible increase is 20%.
Dubai Rent Increase Calculator Enter your rent and the index average to see your legal maximum.The five increase brackets
The rules come from Dubai Decree No. 43 of 2013. They compare your current rent with the index average for your type of home and set the maximum increase like this:
| Your rent compared with the index average | Maximum increase |
|---|---|
| Up to 10% below | 0% |
| 11% to 20% below | 5% |
| 21% to 30% below | 10% |
| 31% to 40% below | 15% |
| More than 40% below | 20% |
The percentage is applied to your current rent, not to the market average.
Examples
Say the index average for your apartment is AED 100,000 a year:
| Your current rent | Below average by | Maximum new rent |
|---|---|---|
| AED 95,000 | 5% | AED 95,000 (no increase) |
| AED 85,000 | 15% | AED 89,250 (+5%) |
| AED 75,000 | 25% | AED 82,500 (+10%) |
| AED 65,000 | 35% | AED 74,750 (+15%) |
| AED 55,000 | 45% | AED 66,000 (+20%) |
Notice that even the biggest allowed increase leaves the AED 55,000 tenant well below the market average. The rules are designed to move rents toward the market gradually, not all at once.
Finding your index average
Use the DLD's Smart Rental Index, available on the Dubai Land Department website and in the Dubai REST app. You enter your building, unit type and size, and it gives a benchmark rent for homes like yours.
Since 2025 the index rates each building on its quality, location and facilities, so the figure is specific to your building rather than the whole area. Check it yourself rather than relying on a number from your landlord or agent, because the result decides everything else.
The 90 day notice rule
A landlord who wants to change the rent or any other terms must tell you in writing at least 90 days before your contract ends. If the notice arrives late, the increase does not apply at that renewal, even if the index would allow it. Keep every message and email about the renewal, with dates.
Tip: mark the date 90 days before your contract ends in your calendar. If nothing has arrived by then, your rent should stay the same for the next year.
If the increase looks too high
- Check the index for your exact unit and run the numbers in the calculator.
- Reply in writing with the index result and the maximum the rules allow. Most landlords accept this once they see the numbers.
- Offer to renew at the legal amount. Keep the conversation polite and on the record.
- If it is still not resolved, the Rental Disputes Centre can decide. Filing involves a fee, so it is usually the last step.
If you decide to move
Sometimes moving makes sense, but it is rarely free. Between the first rent cheque, the security deposit, agency fee, Ejari and DEWA, moving into a AED 100,000 apartment can cost close to AED 40,000 upfront. Compare that with the increase you are being asked to pay before deciding.
Moving In Cost Calculator Add up the real cost of moving to a new rental.And if your rent is already high, it may be worth checking whether a mortgage on a similar home would cost less each month.
Rent vs Mortgage Calculator Your monthly rent against a mortgage on the same home.Questions people ask
What is the maximum rent increase in Dubai?
20%, and only when your current rent is more than 40% below the average rent for similar homes in the DLD rental index. Most tenants who already pay close to market rates cannot be given any increase at all.
Is the percentage applied to my rent or to the market average?
To your current rent. If you pay AED 80,000 and a 5% increase is allowed, the most your landlord can ask is AED 84,000.
How much notice does my landlord need to give?
At least 90 days before your contract ends, in writing. If notice is late, the increase cannot be applied at that renewal.
Can my landlord increase the rent in the middle of the contract?
No. Rent is fixed for the length of the tenancy contract. Changes can only take effect at renewal, with proper notice.
Where can I complain about an unfair increase?
The Rental Disputes Centre in Dubai handles disagreements between landlords and tenants. Bring your tenancy contract, the index result and any written notices.
This guide explains general rules as of the date above. Fees and regulations change, so confirm the figures for your own purchase or tenancy with the Dubai Land Department, your bank or a registered broker.