Rent Increase Rules in Dubai: A 2026 Tenant's Guide

Your landlord cannot raise the rent as they please. In Dubai, increases at renewal follow a set system linked to the rental index.

01. The Smart Rental Index

The Smart Rental Index shows the average rent for similar properties in your building and community. Your current rent is compared with that average to decide whether an increase is allowed, and how big it can be.

02. The permitted bands

The maximum increase depends on how far your current rent is below the index average:

• Within 10% of the average (or above it): no increase allowed.
• 11% to 20% below: up to 5%.
• 21% to 30% below: up to 10%.
• 31% to 40% below: up to 15%.
• More than 40% below: up to 20%.

These are maximums. A landlord can ask for less, and you can negotiate.

03. The 90-day rule

A landlord who wants to raise the rent must give written notice at least 90 days before the lease ends. If the notice is late, the increase cannot apply for that renewal.

04. How to check your increase

• Find your current annual rent and the end date of your contract.
• Use the official rental calculator from the Dubai Land Department or its app, close to the renewal date.
• Compare the result with what your landlord has asked for.

05. If the increase looks too high

• Ask your landlord to explain how they calculated it.
• Show them the official calculator result.
• If you cannot agree, you can bring the matter to the Rental Disputes Centre.

With rents growing more slowly in 2026, many tenants find that the calculator allows little or no increase. Read more about your rights in your rights as a tenant in Dubai, or return to the Tenant's Guide.

Official sources: Dubai Land Department: tenancy guide and laws · Dubai Land Department: Smart Rent Index

Need advice on a renewal? Speak to our team and we will help you check the numbers.