Sub-Tenancy (Subletting) in Dubai
Sub-tenancy (or subletting) occurs when a tenant rents out all or part of the property they are leasing to a third party (a sub-tenant). In Dubai, subletting without the explicit written consent of the landlord is prohibited under the tenancy law and can be grounds for eviction. Many standard tenancy contracts include an express prohibition on subletting, but even without such a clause, the statutory default is that subletting requires consent.
People searching for “sub-tenancy Dubai” (subletting Dubai, subletting rental UAE) are usually drafting a notice, checking a landlord claim, or preparing an RDSC bundle—use the sections below to connect the definition to your documents.
Why this term matters
Understanding “Sub-Tenancy (Subletting) in Dubai” helps you read notices, contracts, and RDSC correspondence accurately. Clear definitions reduce confusion when you compare your situation with official requirements or seek advice.
This term is most relevant to your tenancy contract, handover records, and what can (and cannot) be agreed in writing. If you are preparing for the RDSC, connect the definition to your own documents: the words on the page must match what you can prove with Ejari, dates, and written communications.
People searching for “sub-tenancy Dubai” are usually trying to (a) confirm a rule, (b) draft a letter, or (c) decide whether to file. Use the glossary definition alongside the technical section below—then cross-check the law reference with your contract and any notices you received.
Related ideas: subletting Dubai, subletting rental UAE, Dubai subletting rules, can I sublet in Dubai. These phrases often appear in landlord and agent emails; knowing how they fit together helps you respond without conceding points that conflict with Law No. 26 of 2007 or its amendments.
DubaiRentCase provides general guidance and document preparation tools; it does not provide legal advice. If your dispute is complex or high-value, consult a qualified UAE tenancy lawyer.
Law No. 26 of 2007, Article 24
“The tenant shall not sub-lease the property or any part thereof without the written consent of the landlord.”
In Depth
Article 24 of Law No. 26 of 2007 makes it clear that a tenant may not sublet the property — whether in whole or in part — without the landlord's written permission. This applies to all forms of subletting, including short-term holiday lets on platforms such as Airbnb or Booking.com (which also require a holiday home licence from DTCM, Dubai's tourism authority).
If a tenant is found to be subletting without consent, the landlord can terminate the tenancy and apply to the RDSC for an immediate eviction order. This is one of the few situations in Dubai where the 12-month notice period does not apply — an eviction for illegal subletting can be expedited.
Short-term rentals through platforms like Airbnb in Dubai also require a separate holiday home licence from the Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM). Operating an unlicensed holiday home is a separate legal violation that carries fines of AED 5,000–10,000 per infringement.
Tenants who want to sublet legitimately should include a subletting permission clause in their tenancy contract from the outset, or obtain a written amendment to the contract from the landlord before proceeding. Verbal agreements are not sufficient.
Related Terms
Frequently Asked Questions
My roommate wants to take over my apartment. Is this subletting?
A roommate arrangement where you remain the primary tenant and have the landlord's consent is generally acceptable. However, if you intend to vacate and have a third party take over the lease, that is either a sublease or an assignment — both requiring landlord consent and a formal contract amendment.
Can I list my apartment on Airbnb in Dubai?
Only with both the landlord's written permission and a valid DTCM Holiday Home licence. Operating without both is illegal and carries significant fines. Your landlord can evict you for unlicensed short-term letting.
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