Renting · September 2026 · 5 min read

Can your landlord raise the rent? The RERA index rules, explained

Dubai doesn't let landlords raise rent at will. Under Decree No. 43 of 2013, the maximum increase at renewal depends on how far your current rent sits below the average rent for similar properties in the official RERA rental index.

The bands

Up to 10% below the index average: no increase allowed.
11–20% below: up to 5%.
21–30% below: up to 10%.
31–40% below: up to 15%.
More than 40% below: up to 20%.

Notice matters as much as the number

Landlords must give written notice of any change to the tenancy terms, including rent, at least 90 days before the contract expires. An increase that follows the bands but misses the notice window can be challenged.

Check the index figure for your exact unit type and community — not a neighbouring building or a different bedroom count.

How to check yours

Look up your property on the official DLD rental index, compare it with your Ejari-registered rent, and apply the band. Truval's Rent & RERA tool does the arithmetic and drafts a polite reply if an increase looks higher than allowed. For disputes, the Rental Dispute Settlement Centre is the right route, not a calculator.

Try the , or explore the .