Rent Increases and Tenancy Renewal in Dubai

Dubai rent increases are capped by the official rental index, which compares your rent with the average for similar homes. Any change to rent or terms needs at least 90 days’ written notice before the contract ends. Check the index yourself before agreeing to an increase.

Updated 27 October 2026 · 1 min read

A landlord can only raise the rent at renewal, only by the amount the official rental index allows, and only with at least 90 days’ notice before the contract ends.

How much can rent go up?

The allowed increase depends on how far your current rent is below the average rent for similar properties, as shown in the Land Department’s rental index:

Your rent compared with the index average Maximum increase
Up to 10% below average No increase
11–20% below 5%
21–30% below 10%
31–40% below 15%
More than 40% below 20%

These bands come from Dubai Decree No. 43 of 2013 at the time of writing. Check the current rules and the calculator on official Land Department services before agreeing.

Renewal step by step

  1. Watch the 90-day mark

    Any change to rent or terms must be notified at least 90 days before expiry.

  2. Check the index

    Use the official rental index calculator for your property.

  3. Agree in writing

    Sign a renewal or new contract.

  4. Renew Ejari

    Register the renewed contract in Ejari.

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

How much can my landlord increase the rent in Dubai?

Only as allowed by the official rental index, which depends on how far your rent is below the average for similar homes. If you are within 10% of the average, no increase is allowed.

How much notice must my landlord give for a rent increase?

At least 90 days before the tenancy contract ends.

Where can I check the rental index?

Through official Dubai Land Department services, including its rental index calculator.

Keep reading

Sources

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