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The Emirates 24|7 guide published on Thursday details the framework under Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007 that governs how tenants and landlords handle the end of a rental agreement. The law addresses notice requirements, the expected condition of the property upon handover and the treatment of security deposits to reduce conflicts at the conclusion of tenancies. Proper planning ahead of a move-out can help tenants secure full or partial refunds while meeting all statutory obligations.
According to the guide, tenants planning not to renew must provide written notice at least 90 days before the contract expires to prevent automatic renewal on existing terms. Early termination before the fixed period ends requires either a mutual written agreement with the landlord or an exit clause within the original contract that specifies any compensation. Gulf News reporting on similar cases indicates that without such arrangements tenants may remain liable for rent until the original end date or face claims through the Rental Disputes Centre.
The publication stresses that tenants are required to return the property in the condition received except for normal wear and tear as outlined in Article 21 of the law. A joint inspection attended by both parties with documented photographs and videos is recommended to agree on any necessary repairs before keys are handed over. Supporting legal commentary from Kaizen Asset Management Services notes that routine repainting after a full year of occupancy is generally considered normal wear and cannot be charged unless the contract explicitly states otherwise.
Security deposits limited to five percent of annual rent for unfurnished properties and 10 percent for furnished units must be refunded or adjusted only for legitimate maintenance costs under Article 20 of the law according to the Emirates 24|7 guide. Landlords cannot withhold funds for minor cosmetic issues or standard upkeep that occurs through ordinary use over time. Related coverage in Gulf News advises tenants to issue a formal written request for the refund with a five-to-seven-day deadline before escalating unresolved cases to the Rental Disputes Centre where rulings are binding.
The move-out checklist also requires settlement of all utility accounts with DEWA including a final bill and clearance certificate prior to departure. Tenants must cancel the Ejari registration through Dubai Real Estate Services Trustee Centres at a cost of 40 dirhams plus value-added tax to update official records and avoid lingering liabilities as per Dubai Land Department guidance referenced in the report. All post-dated cheques should be returned and any outstanding payments reconciled during the handover process.
Disagreements frequently centre on the extent of damage versus normal wear when determining final deductions from the deposit. The guide encourages both parties to maintain comprehensive records from the initial move-in inventory through to the exit inspection to support their positions if a dispute arises. Separate analyses from legal firms such as Al Kabban & Associates highlight that clear documentation significantly reduces the time and cost associated with Rental Disputes Centre proceedings.
