Understanding Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities under Dubai Rent Law

Residing in a rented apartment in Dubai comes with legal implications governed by Law No. 26 of 2007, which regulates the relationship between landlords and tenants in the Emirate.

Landlord’s Maintenance Obligation:

In conformity with Article 16 of the Dubai Rent Law, the landlord is typically responsible for maintenance and repair works, ensuring the tenant’s full intended use of the property. 

The law specifies, “Unless otherwise agreed by the parties, a Landlord shall… be responsible for the Real Property maintenance works and for fixing any breakdown or defect that affects the Tenant’s full intended use of the Real Property.”

Tenant’s Contribution to Maintenance Costs:

As stipulated in your tenancy contract, it’s important to note that you have agreed to bear costs up to Dh500 for any maintenance. Therefore, as mentioned in the contract, you are liable for incurring such expenses.

Landlord’s Responsibility for Beyond-Control Issues:

Article 17 of the Dubai Rent Law outlines instances where the landlord remains responsible for rectifying breakdowns, damages, or defects beyond the tenant’s control. 

The article states, “A landlord may not make… any changes that preclude the intended use of the [Real Property]. 

The landlord shall be responsible for any such changes… In addition, the landlord shall be responsible for any breakdown, impairment, defect, or damage sustained by the Real Property for reasons beyond the tenant’s control.”