Ending a Tenancy Contract in Dubai

A tenancy normally ends at its expiry date with the notice set in the contract. Leaving early depends on the early-termination clause. A landlord can only evict for specific reasons, and ending a tenancy for sale or own use needs 12 months’ notice by notary or registered mail.

Updated 27 October 2026 · 1 min read

Most tenancies end at expiry. Leaving early follows the contract’s early-termination clause. Landlords can only end a tenancy for reasons allowed by law, with the required notice.

If you are the tenant

  • At expiry: give the notice set in your contract, often 60–90 days.
  • Early: check the early-termination penalty, commonly one or two months’ rent, if the contract allows it.
  • Move-out: settle DEWA, cancel Ejari, return keys and agree the deposit refund.

If you are the landlord

Dubai law limits eviction to specific grounds. These include non-payment and breaches during the tenancy, and, at the end of the contract, the landlord wanting to sell, use the property for themselves or a close relative, or carry out major works. For sale or own use, the landlord must give 12 months’ notice by notary public or registered mail.

Moving out step by step

  1. Give written notice

    Keep proof of the date it was sent.

  2. Final inspection

    Compare with the move-in condition report.

  3. Close accounts

    DEWA final bill, chiller, internet and Ejari cancellation.

  4. Deposit refund

    Agree any deductions in writing.

This guide is general information, not legal, tax, financial or lending advice. Fees, rules and procedures change and depend on the property, the parties and the contract. Confirm current details with the relevant authority and qualified advisers before acting.

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Common questions

Can I leave my Dubai rental before the contract ends?

Only if the contract allows early termination, usually with a penalty such as one or two months' rent, or if the landlord agrees.

How much notice must a landlord give to evict for sale?

12 months, delivered by notary public or registered mail, taking effect at the end of the tenancy.

Does my tenancy end if the landlord sells the property?

No. The tenancy continues with the new owner, who must follow the same notice rules.

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