Long-term leases in Dubai automatically renew for one year under the same conditions if neither party raises any objections.
To evict a tenant, the landlord needs compelling reasons. These grounds are listed in Article 25 of Law No. 33 of 2008 and are divided into two categories:
BEFORE THE CONTRACT EXPIRES
1 – Non-payment of rent or failure to comply with contractual terms or legal obligations (within 30 days of written notification).
2 – Subletting of the property without the written consent of the landlord.
3 – Use of the property for immoral or illegal activities.
4 – Be a threat to the security of the property, damaging it intentionally or negligently.
5 – Use of the property for purposes that do not correspond to the objectives of the contract or that violate the rules of construction and land use.
6 – Risk of collapse of the property, with the presentation of a report certified by the Municipality of Dubai.
The owner must send a written communication through a notary or registered mail.
AT THE END OF THE CONTRACT
7 – The owner intends to put the property up for sale.
8 – The owner or his immediate family members wish to reside in the property himself.
The owner will not be able to rent the property for 2 years.
9 – The property needs restoration or maintenance work that does not allow the tenant to live there.
After repairs, the tenant must be offered to rent the property again. If the owner refuses, he can rent the property again.
10 – Demolition and reconstruction of the building with the approval of the Municipality of Dubai.
The landlord must provide 12 months’ written notice through a notary public or by registered mail. Email or messaging notifications are not valid.
