Dubai: the two checks
In Dubai, a rent increase at renewal is only valid if it passes both of these checks.
1. The amount
Under Dubai Decree No. 43 of 2013, the most your landlord can add depends on how far your rent sits below the average for similar homes:
| Your rent below average by | Maximum increase |
|---|---|
| Up to 10% | 0% |
| 11% to 20% | 5% |
| 21% to 30% | 10% |
| 31% to 40% | 15% |
| More than 40% | 20% |
The Dubai Land Department's Smart Rental Index works out the average for your home. Since 2026 it looks at your specific building, its quality and services, and rents in the area. You enter your Ejari number, contract end date and current rent on the DLD website, and it shows what's allowed.
2. The notice
Your landlord must tell you about any increase in writing at least 90 days before your contract ends. If the notice came later than that, the increase isn't valid for this renewal.
If the increase isn't legal
- Reply to your landlord in writing, showing the Smart Rental Index result.
- You can still negotiate. Many landlords accept the legal figure once it's shown.
- If you can't agree, you can file a case at Dubai's Rental Disputes Centre, which can decide a fair rent.
Abu Dhabi: rent freeze
Since 2 June 2026, landlords in Abu Dhabi can't raise rent at all, until further notice. Before the freeze, increases were capped at 5% a year. The freeze covers residential, commercial and industrial properties.
Sharjah: the three-year rule
Under Sharjah Law No. 5 of 2024, your rent can't be raised during the first three years of your tenancy. After that, the landlord can only raise it to a "fair rent value." There's no fixed percentage. If you disagree with an increase, you can raise a rental dispute in Sharjah.
Other emirates
Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah and Umm Al Quwain have their own rules. We'll add them once we can confirm the current rules from reliable sources.
Common questions
How do I know if my rent increase is legal in Dubai?
Check two things: the amount must be within what the Dubai Land Department's Smart Rental Index allows for your home, and your landlord must have given you written notice at least 90 days before your contract ends.
How much can my landlord increase rent in Dubai?
Between 0% and 20%, depending on how far your rent is below the average for similar homes. If your rent is within 10% of the average, no increase is allowed.
What if my landlord gave less than 90 days' notice?
The increase isn't valid for this renewal. Reply in writing and point out the notice rule. If you can't agree, you can go to Dubai's Rental Disputes Centre.
Can my landlord increase rent in Abu Dhabi?
No. Abu Dhabi introduced a rent freeze from 2 June 2026, so rent can't be increased until further notice.
How often can rent be increased in Sharjah?
Not during the first three years of a tenancy. After that, only to a fair rent value, with no fixed percentage.
Sources
- Dubai Land Department: Rental Index
- The Week: Is your landlord's rent increase in Dubai legal? (30 Aug 2026)
- Khaleej Times: Dubai rent increase notice, what tenants can do (4 Oct 2026)
- Gulf News: How much can my landlord raise the rent in Dubai?
- Khaleej Times: Abu Dhabi rent freeze guide
- Khaleej Times: How often can a Sharjah landlord increase rent?
Related calculators
This calculator gives an estimate for guidance only. It is not legal or financial advice. Check important figures with the relevant authority or a qualified adviser.