Dubai's RERA (Real Estate Regulatory Agency) sets strict limits on how much landlords can increase rent. Many tenants — and some landlords — are unaware of these limits.
The RERA Rental Increase Formula
Under Dubai Law No. 43 of 2013, rent increases are tied to the RERA Rental Index. The allowed increase depends on how much your current rent is below the market average:
| Current rent vs market average | Maximum increase |
| More than 40% below market | Up to 20% |
| 31–40% below market | Up to 15% |
| 21–30% below market | Up to 10% |
| 11–20% below market | Up to 5% |
| Less than 11% below market | 0% (no increase) |
If your rent is at or above the market average, your landlord cannot legally increase it at renewal.
How to Check the Rental Index
1. Go to [dubailand.gov.ae](https://dubailand.gov.ae) → Rental Index
2. Enter your property type, area, and number of bedrooms
3. The index will show the average annual rent range for your property type
Or use our [RERA Rental Index Calculator](/tools/rera-index) which does this automatically.
Notice Requirements
Your landlord must give 90 days' written notice before any rent increase. If they give less notice, you're legally entitled to renew at your current rate.
What to Do if You Receive an Illegal Increase
1. Calculate the maximum legal increase using the RERA index
2. Send a formal written response citing Law No. 43 of 2013
3. If unresolved, file a complaint at the Rental Dispute Settlement Centre (RDSC) — fees start at 3.5% of annual rent, minimum AED 500
Our team can help you assess any proposed increase and draft a formal response. Call us on +971 4 835 8084.