Becoming a landlord in Dubai

You want to rent your property – what's next? Before you start looking for a tenant, here are a few points to consider.

Dubai is a prime market for real estate investment, and becoming a landlord comes with many advantages, including strong rental yields and tax-free income. However, there are specific rules and laws that govern the relationship between landlords and tenants in Dubai. Make sure you're familiar with Dubai Landlord and Tenant Law to avoid any legal complications, and work with a professional agency like Offplan Realty to help you navigate the process smoothly.

Short term or long term?

Let's start with the most common question. As a Dubai landlord, you can choose to rent your home for the long term (typically annual contracts) or as a short term/holiday home (a few days, weeks, or months).

To find the best fit, you'll have to consider a few things including the type and location of your property, the terms of each approach, and the time involved.

Whether you're considering short-term or long-term rentals, our consultants can provide insights into market demand and guide you toward the option that maximizes your returns. In high-traffic areas like Dubai Marina and Downtown Dubai, short-term rentals can be lucrative, but long-term rentals offer stability and minimal turnover. We’ll help you make the right decision for your property.

What is the process?

The timeline will go hand in hand with factors like location, stock availability, demand, and price. If your property is in a tourist area like Dubai Marina or Downtown Dubai, short term may provide great returns and the flexibility to still use your property in between tenants. If you're unlikely to use your property and want a longer solution, long term leasing might be a better fit for you.

The next step is to connect with a professional agency that can help you market your property on different channels, distribute the listing to an expansive network, and assess the potential tenants on your behalf.

As for the rental price, it'll always come down to the market. You can review the property portals to get an idea of the rental prices in your area – just remember that the advertising price may be different from what the property ended up being rented for.

Your Property Consultant should be able to help set a fair price based on the current data, market rates, level of demand, conditions, and amenities.

Understanding your legal landlord rights in Dubai

As a landlord in Dubai, it’s important to understand the rights and responsibilities laid out in Dubai Landlord and Tenant Law. Knowing your legal standing allows you to protect your investment while ensuring a smooth relationship with tenants. Here's a breakdown of key legal aspects you should know:

  • Eviction Rights: As a landlord, you can evict a tenant for non-payment, personal use, or major property changes. However, these actions must follow specific legal processes through the Rental Dispute Settlement Centre (RDC).
  • Notice for Rent Increases: To legally raise rent, landlords must notify tenants 90 days in advance of contract renewal. This increase is regulated by RERA and the Dubai Rental Index to ensure fairness.
  • Maintenance Obligations: Major maintenance work is the responsibility of the landlord, while minor repairs can be assigned to the tenant. Clear communication about maintenance responsibilities helps void future disputes.

Choosing the right agent

Becoming a landlord in Dubai offers great opportunities – but it can also turn into a real-life nightmare if you get the wrong tenant or don't have professional support.

You might need help advertising your property, or other services like furnishing solutions and home maintenance. It's easier to go with an experienced agency with a wide range of services and partnerships – that way you'll have everything you need in one place.

Take your time to contact a few agencies and go with the one you feel most comfortable with. The agency commission fee is typically covered by the tenant in Dubai, but make sure you confirm with your Property Consultant as this may vary in some cases.