What Expats Wanting to Rent a Property in Dubai Should Know

Moving to Dubai from abroad and looking for the right place to live can be somewhat challenging. Essential matters regarding tenancy and ownership of property need to be clarified beforehand to make the process as smooth as possible. 

So before you make a move, here are some things you should know as an expat in Dubai looking to rent a property:

1. Tenant Rights

As an expat, you have the same rights as a local when renting a property in Dubai. While there are no restrictions imposed on the rental of property to expats, you may be asked to provide personal information like your passport, Emirates ID, and bank details. This is to establish your credibility as a customer to the landlord/owner.

2. Tenancy Agreements

If you are an expat, you can rent out a property in Dubai without a tenancy agreement, provided the landlord agrees. While there are no laws restricting expats from renting a property without a tenancy agreement, it is advisable to have a contract in place, including the rent amount and terms of the deal.

3. Rental Increase

While expats are free to choose their preferred accommodation and stay in a property as long as they like, a law in Dubai allows the landlord to increase the rent of the property after the second year of the tenancy agreement. Then, the owner can increase the rent once a year by 25 percent of the rent paid in the previous year. The landlord will be bound to inform the tenant about the increase three months prior.

4. Reviewing the Lease Papers

When renting out a property in Dubai, it is essential to review the lease papers carefully to ensure that you understand your rights as a tenant and that you are in compliance with the laws of the UAE. The agreement should include the following:

• The amount of rent paid per month
• Period of occupancy and amount of security deposit paid
• Details of the tenancy agreement
• Rent increase information
• Details of any apartment facilities available

5. Eviction Laws

Under UAE laws, it is illegal for an owner to evict a tenant without the knowledge of the concerned authorities. In the case of default, the landlord must issue an official notice to quit and take legal action against the tenant.

6. Rent Payment

In Dubai, expats can pay their rent in any currency they prefer. However, the landlord is given the option to choose a preferred currency to calculate the monthly rent. The tenant is obliged to pay the rent amount in the currency requested by the owner. The tenant cannot make any deductions from the rent.

7. Utility Bills

Utility bills in Dubai are included in the monthly rent. This means that landlords themselves take over the responsibility of paying them. However, tenants have the option of paying the bills separately if they have been provided with the account number by the owner.

Conclusion

Renting a property in Dubai is an easy and smooth process for expats provided they understand their rights as tenants and can follow a few guidelines. Landlords in Dubai can be assured that they have no legal or financial obligations toward their tenants. However, they need to be aware of the contract laws and follow them to avoid legal problems.

Dacha Real Estate is a top property agency in Dubai that provides high-quality real estate for sale and lease in Dubai and comprehensive property management services. With a clear focus on providing world-class client services, we managed to retain success during the Dubai property crash and have grown to become a key player in the industry. We’re who to call for rental properties in Dubai done without any hassle, and we’re excited to help you. Get in touch with us today for Dubai properties for rent.