How to Set the Right Rent for Your Dubai Property

The right rent fills the property quickly with a good tenant and keeps them. In 2026, with rent growth slowing and more homes coming to market, careful pricing matters more.

01. Compare like with like

Look at current listings and recent rentals in your building or nearby buildings. Compare size, view, floor, condition and whether the unit is furnished. A rent set against real, current examples is easier to defend.

02. Use the rental index

The Smart Rental Index shows the average rent for similar properties and also guides how much you can raise rent at renewal. If your current rent is already close to the average, there may be little room to increase it. See the full rules in the Landlord's Guide.

03. Count the cost of an empty month

An over-priced property can sit empty for weeks, and every empty month costs more than a small reduction in rent. A fair price from the start often earns more over the year.

04. Furnished or unfurnished

Furnished units can command a higher rent but need more upkeep, and demand depends on the area. Ask your agent what tenants in your building are looking for.

05. Plan for renewals

• Diarise the 90-day notice date well before the lease ends.
• Check the official calculator before you propose a new rent.
• Keeping a good tenant at a fair rent is often better than a vacancy.

06. Review each year

Compare your rent with the market before every renewal. Prices and supply in your community can change quickly.

Next, read how to find the right tenant and write a solid contract.

Official sources: Dubai Land Department: Smart Rent Index

Want a rental valuation? Speak to our team for a recommendation based on current listings.