How do I file a rental dispute in Dubai?

In Dubai, all rental disputes are submitted to the Rental Disputes Center (RDC) within the Dubai Land Department. Disputes may be submitted online via either the RDC app or the RDC website. To use either option a free account must first be created. Then information relating to the tenancy and the parties to the agreement must be inputted and a fee paid. Alternatively, you can file at a Real Estate Services Trustee centre, which adds a service charge.

For termination, renewal, rent and eviction disputes the fee is 3.5% of annual rent, a minimum of AED 500 and a maximum of AED 20,000. There are also minor service charges. A copy of your Ejari agreement, your Emirates ID and any notice sent or received must also be provided.

A hearing will be arranged at least seven days after payment and if an agreement is reached via conciliation then half of the initial fee will be refunded. RDC also provides a free Virtual Judge which provides advice prior to filing.