Tenancy Contract (Dubai)

The RERA standard tenancy contract form is available for download through the Dubai REST app and on the DLD website. While landlords may use their own formats, all contracts must include: full names and Emirates IDs of both parties, the property's DEWA premises number, the annual rent, the payment schedule (number of cheques), the security deposit amount, the start and end date of the tenancy, and the permitted use of the property.

Dubai contracts are typically written on an annual basis and renewed. Multi-year contracts are permitted but must still comply with all statutory requirements at each renewal stage. Unlike some jurisdictions, long fixed-term contracts do not give landlords the ability to end the lease at the natural expiry without the Article 25 notice requirements.

A tenancy contract that is not registered on Ejari has limited legal enforceability — particularly at the RDSC. Some judges will accept evidence from unregistered contracts, but it creates significant risk for both parties. Tenants should always insist on Ejari registration promptly after signing.

Common contract clauses that are void under Dubai law include: clauses requiring the tenant to pay for structural repairs; clauses allowing the landlord to enter without notice; clauses forfeiting the security deposit if the tenant terminates for valid legal reasons; and clauses shortening the statutory notice period for non-renewal below 90 days.