Tenancy agreement questions, answered against the law

Is a signed but unregistered tenancy agreement valid in Dubai?

It may be a valid private bargain, but it is not a recognised tenancy: an unregistered contract cannot support DEWA connection, visa processes, or a claim at the Rental Dispute Settlement Centre. Registration in Ejari is what gives the agreement operational effect.

Can my landlord raise the rent during the contract term?

No. Rent is fixed for the term. At renewal, any increase is capped by Decree No. 43 of 2013 against the RERA rental index, and must be notified at least ninety days before expiry under Article 14 of Law No. 26 of 2007 as amended.

What happens if the contract expires and we both do nothing?

Article 6 of Law No. 26 of 2007 renews the tenancy on the same terms for the same period or one year, whichever is shorter. The renewed term should still be registered to keep the tenancy’s record current.

Who must sign the agreement for it to count?

For the landlord: the owner on the title deed, or a representative with written authority such as a power of attorney covering tenancy dealings. For the tenant: the person whose Emirates ID anchors the registration, or a company’s authorised signatory with the trade licence.

Can we agree a tenancy shorter than one year?

Yes. Shorter terms are lawful and can be registered in the unified contract format.

Are extra terms in an addendum enforceable?

Yes, when the addendum is signed and initialled like the contract and does not contradict the unified form’s fields or the protections of the tenancy law. Clauses that waive legal protections are unenforceable even if signed.

How much security deposit is normal?

Market custom runs around five percent of annual rent for unfurnished and ten percent for furnished property — custom, not law. The enforceable figure is whatever the contract states, and its return should be tied to an inspection against move-in condition.

Can my landlord refuse to renew and ask me to leave at expiry?

Only on the grounds the law allows — such as sale of the property or genuine personal or first-degree family use — and only with twelve months’ written notice served through a notary public or by registered mail.

Agreement signed? It counts for nothing until it is registered.
Send the signed contract to ejaries and the Ejari registration is completed the same day, certificate delivered electronically.

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