Dispute Resolution (Rental Dispute Settlement Centre)

Source: Dubai Decree No. 26 of 2013 (RDSC); Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007, Article 27; Abu Dhabi Judicial Department rental dispute procedures

Written in plain language for general understanding. This is educational content, not legal advice. Based on UAE federal decrees, laws, and ministerial decisions.

UAE Federal Law

What is this right?

When landlords and tenants cannot agree, specialised dispute centres handle rental disagreements:

  • Dubai RDSC: The Rental Dispute Settlement Centre (part of Dubai Land Department) handles all rental disputes in Dubai. Filing is done online or in person.
  • Abu Dhabi: Rental disputes are handled by the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD) through their dedicated rental dispute process.
  • What they handle: Rent increases, evictions, deposit returns, maintenance disputes, contract interpretation, and early termination disagreements.
  • Fast process: The RDSC aims to resolve cases quickly, often within weeks rather than months.
  • Fees: Filing fees are typically 3.5% of the annual rent (capped) for the RDSC in Dubai.
  • Appeals: You can appeal the decision within 15 days of the ruling.

When does it apply?

  • You have a dispute with your landlord or tenant that you cannot resolve directly.
  • The dispute involves a registered tenancy contract (Ejari or Tawtheeq).
  • Informal negotiation has failed.

What should you do?

  • Try to resolve it directly first — send a formal written complaint to the other party.
  • Gather your evidence — tenancy contract, Ejari certificate, payment receipts, communications, and photos.
  • File your case online through the Dubai REST app (for Dubai) or ADJD portal (for Abu Dhabi).
  • Attend all hearings — failure to attend may result in a default judgment against you.

What should you NOT do?

  • Do not take matters into your own hands — no changing locks, cutting utilities, or removing belongings.
  • Do not file without a registered lease — an unregistered contract may weaken your case.
  • Do not miss the appeal deadline — you have only 15 days to appeal an RDSC decision in Dubai.

More in Housing Rights

Tenancy Contracts & RegistrationEvery rental agreement in the UAE must be properly documented and registered:Written contract: All tenancy agreements mu...Read more →Rent Increases & Rent CapLandlords cannot raise your rent by any amount they choose. The UAE has rules that limit rent increases:Dubai RERA Index...Read more →Security Deposits & ReturnMost UAE landlords require a security deposit at the start of a tenancy:Typical amount: Security deposits are usually 5%...Read more →

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