Tenant Moving Rights and Responsibilities in Dubai

Know Your Rights

Moving as a tenant in Dubai involves understanding your legal rights and fulfilling your obligations. This guide covers the key aspects of tenant moves, helping you avoid disputes and ensure a smooth transition.

Lease Termination and Notice

Standard Notice Requirements

• Most contracts require 60-90 days notice
• Notice must be provided in writing
• Check your specific lease terms
• Early termination may incur penalties

End of Contract

At lease end:

• You can leave without penalty (with proper notice)
• Landlord may offer renewal terms
• Market rate adjustments are regulated
• RERA calculator determines allowed rent increases

Early Termination

Breaking a lease early:

• Review your contract's early termination clause
• Common penalty: 1-2 months rent
• Some contracts don't allow early termination
• Negotiate with landlord if possible

Security Deposit Recovery

What to Expect

• Standard deposit: 5% annual rent (unfurnished), 10% (furnished)
• Should be returned within 30 days of move-out
• Deductions only for damages beyond normal wear
• Get itemized list of any deductions

Protecting Your Deposit

• Document condition at move-in (photos, video)
• Report issues to landlord in writing during tenancy
• Request joint inspection before move-out
• Keep records of all maintenance requests

Disputing Unfair Deductions

• Request written justification
• Provide your move-in documentation
• File complaint with RERA if unresolved
• Rental Dispute Settlement Centre handles cases

Ejari Cancellation

Process

1. Inform landlord of intended move-out date
2. Landlord initiates Ejari cancellation
3. Alternatively, file for cancellation with termination letter
4. DEWA requires Ejari cancellation for final bill

Required Documents

• Original tenancy contract
• Emirates ID copy
• Termination agreement (if early)
• Move-out date confirmation

DEWA Final Bill

Process

• Apply for disconnection 2-3 days before move-out
• Final meter reading scheduled
• Security deposit refunded (minus final bill)
• Takes approximately 2 weeks for refund

Tips

• Take photos of meters on move-out day
• Provide forwarding contact for refund
• Clear any outstanding balance first

Move-Out Inspection

What Landlords Check

• Walls (marks, holes, damage)
• Flooring condition
• Kitchen appliances and fixtures
• Bathroom fixtures and tiles
• AC units and filters
• Windows and blinds
• Door locks and handles

Normal Wear vs. Damage

Normal wear (not chargeable):

• Faded paint from sunlight
• Minor carpet wear in high-traffic areas
• Small nail holes from pictures
• Worn door handles from regular use

Damage (chargeable):

• Large holes in walls
• Stained or burned carpets
• Broken fixtures
• Pet damage
• Unauthorized alterations

Professional Cleaning

Is It Required?

• Check your lease—some require professional cleaning
• Common for furnished apartments
• Cost: AED 300-800 depending on size
• Keep receipt as proof

Key Return

Best Practices

• Return all keys and access cards
• Get signed receipt from landlord/agent
• Document the handover
• Confirm in writing when deposit will be returned

Building Move-Out Permits

Requirements

• Apply 3-7 days in advance
• Landlord/agent may need to authorize
• Deposit often required (separate from security deposit)
• Restricted hours typically apply

Dispute Resolution

If issues arise:

• First: Written communication with landlord
• Second: Involve property management company
• Third: RERA complaint or Rental Dispute Centre
• Document everything throughout

Moving Support

Professional movers handle building permits and logistics, letting you focus on the administrative aspects of your move. They understand tenant requirements and can work around inspection schedules and key handover timing.