The Rental Dispute Center (RDC) is the judicial body that decides landlord and tenant disputes in Dubai. It is part of the Dubai Land Department and was set up under Decree No. 26 of 2013. Our rental dispute lawyers prepare, file and argue cases at the RDC for tenants and landlords. Often, a well-drafted legal notice settles the matter before a case is needed.
Disputes we handle
For tenants
- Rent increases above the Smart Rental Index limit, or without 90 days' notice
- Eviction notices that don't meet legal requirements
- Security deposits withheld at the end of a tenancy
- Landlords failing to carry out maintenance or repairs
- Utilities or access cut off by the landlord
For landlords
- Unpaid rent and bounced cheques
- Eviction for non-payment, unauthorised subletting or misuse
- Eviction at the end of the tenancy for sale, own use or renovation
- Damage to the property beyond normal wear and tear
- Tenants refusing to vacate after the tenancy ends
RDC filing fees
| Claim type | Fee | Minimum | Maximum |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eviction, renewal or termination | 3.5% of annual rent | AED 500 | AED 20,000 |
| Monetary claims (e.g. deposit, compensation) | 3.5% of amount claimed | AED 500 | AED 15,000 |
Administrative, knowledge, innovation and legal translation fees are charged on top. If the case settles at the conciliation stage, part of the filing fee may be refunded. (Gulf News, Mondaq)
How an RDC case works
- Legal notice. We send a formal notice to the other side. Many disputes end here.
- Filing. We file the claim online through the Dubai Land Department or Dubai REST app, with translated documents.
- Conciliation. The RDC first tries to settle the dispute between the parties.
- Hearing and judgment. If conciliation fails, the case goes before an RDC judge. Many cases are decided within one or two hearings.
- Appeal. Higher-value cases can be appealed within the RDC.
- Execution. We enforce the judgment, including eviction or recovery of money owed.
Documents you'll need
- Tenancy contract and Ejari certificate
- Title deed (landlords) or a copy of it (tenants, where available)
- Passport and Emirates ID copies for both parties
- Rent cheque copies and payment receipts
- All notices, emails and WhatsApp messages with the other party
- For rent increase disputes: a Smart Rental Index printout for the property
Frequently asked questions
Can I stop paying rent while my case is ongoing?
No. Filing a case does not suspend your obligation to pay rent. Unpaid rent gives the landlord grounds for a counterclaim.
How long does a rental dispute take in Dubai?
Many RDC cases are decided within a month. Appeals and enforcement can add time.
Can my landlord evict me to sell the property?
Only at the end of the tenancy, and only with 12 months' written notice served through a notary public or registered post. A notice that doesn't meet these rules can be challenged.
Is it worth hiring a lawyer for the RDC?
For straightforward claims, many people file themselves. A lawyer adds most value where the facts are disputed, a counterclaim is likely or the amounts are significant.
Facing a rental dispute? Call +971 50 423 1108 or WhatsApp us your tenancy contract for a first review.