2. Verify the Landlord or Agent

Confirm property ownership

Ask for proof that the person renting the property has the legal right to lease it. A title deed or other relevant ownership document can help confirm this.

Check the agent’s authority

If an agent manages the property, confirm their authority to act for the landlord. Ask for the relevant authorization or management agreement when necessary. You should also verify the agent’s licensing details through the appropriate Dubai Land Department channels.

3. Check the Rent and Any Increase

Review the current rent

Confirm that the rent in the contract matches your agreed amount. Also check the payment dates and number of instalments.

Check proposed rent increases

If you are renewing your tenancy, check whether the proposed increase follows the applicable Dubai rental rules. You can use the DLD rental tools to review the permitted rental range for your property.

4. Review the Payment Terms

Check the number of cheques

Many Dubai landlords still accept post-dated cheques. However, some offer monthly or other payment arrangements. Check the number of payments and their due dates before signing.

Review late-payment penalties

Look for clauses that explain what happens if you make a late payment or a cheque is returned. Know the financial consequences before you agree to the contract.

Confirm the security deposit

Check the deposit amount and the conditions for getting it back. The contract should clearly explain when and how the landlord will return the deposit.

5. Understand Maintenance Responsibilities

Know who handles repairs

Your tenancy agreement should explain which party handles maintenance. Major repairs may fall to the landlord. Minor maintenance may fall to the tenant. However, the exact responsibilities can depend on the contract and applicable law.

Put promises in writing

Never rely only on a verbal promise. If the landlord agrees to repair an appliance or make an improvement before you move in, include that agreement in writing.

6. Review Renewal and Notice Terms

Check the notice period

Review the notice requirements for renewal, rent changes, or termination. Dubai tenancy rules can require specific notice periods in certain situations. Make sure the contract reflects the applicable legal requirements.

Check automatic renewal terms

Find out what happens when the contract expires. The agreement should explain whether it renews automatically and what conditions apply.

7. Check Early Termination Rules

Understand the termination penalty

Your circumstances may change during the tenancy. Therefore, check the early termination clause before signing. Look for:

1. Required notice period
2. Early termination fee
3. Conditions for ending the lease
4. Possible exceptions
5. Payment obligations after termination

Knowing these terms early can prevent an expensive surprise later.

8. Confirm Ejari Registration

Ask who will register the contract

Confirm that the tenancy agreement will be registered with Ejari. Do not rely on a vague promise that registration will happen later. Ask who will complete the process and when.

Keep your Ejari certificate

Once registration is complete, keep a copy of your Ejari certificate. It can be important when dealing with utilities and certain government services. It can also help when you need to resolve a tenancy dispute.

9. Check Property Use Restrictions

Review subletting rules

Check whether the contract allows subletting or assigning the tenancy. Do not sublet the property without confirming that you have the landlord’s permission and that the arrangement complies with applicable rules.

Check pets and alterations

If you have pets, plan renovations, or want to make changes to the property, check the contract first. Also confirm whether you can use the property for business activities.

10. Know Your Options if a Dispute Starts

Landlord and tenant disputes in Dubai may fall under the jurisdiction of the Rental Dispute Centre. Keep your tenancy contract, Ejari certificate, payment records, messages, and other relevant documents. Good documentation can help you establish your position if a dispute arises.

Why Have a Lawyer Review Your Tenancy Agreement?

A tenancy contract may look simple. However, one unclear clause can create a serious financial problem. A landlord-tenant lawyer in Dubai can review the agreement before you sign. They can identify unusual terms and explain your legal obligations. Legal review can be especially useful when you are:

1. Signing a high-value residential or commercial lease.
2. Drafting agreements for several rental properties.
3. Renewing a lease with a proposed rent increase.
4. Managing a property from outside Dubai.
5. Dealing with a landlord or tenant dispute.

If you need professional help with a tenancy agreement review in Dubai, GS Advocates can review your contract and explain potential legal risks. The firm also assists clients with landlord-tenant disputes and related legal matters.