Buying a townhouse in one of Dubai’s premium communities is a big milestone, and for many homeowners, renting it out is part of the long-term plan. A common question new owners ask is whether renting a property in Dubai must be done through a real estate agent and what rules apply to landlords.
The short answer is no, an agent is not mandatory. But there are important legal steps, rights and responsibilities every property owner should understand before leasing out their home.
Do You Need an Agent to Rent Out Your Property?
Under Dubai land laws, property owners are not legally required to use a real estate agent to rent out their home. Owners can lease their property directly to tenants if they choose to.
However, if you do decide to work with an agent, that agent must be licensed by the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (Rera). This requirement is set out under Bylaw No. 85 of 2006, which regulates the Real Estate Brokers Register in Dubai. Using a Rera-registered broker helps ensure compliance and reduces the risk of disputes.
When Can You Rent Out Your Property?
A property can only be rented out once ownership is officially registered with the Dubai Land Department (DLD). Once registered, the landlord is legally entitled to lease the property.
The landlord–tenant relationship must always be governed by a written lease contract. This contract forms the legal foundation of the rental arrangement.
What Must Be Included in the Lease Contract?
Dubai law requires lease contracts to clearly outline key details, leaving no room for ambiguity. These include:
- A clear description of the property
- The purpose of the lease
- The lease duration
- The rental amount and payment method
- Ownership details, if the landlord is not the property owner
All lease contracts and any amendments must be registered with Rera to be legally valid. This requirement is set out under Law No. 33 of 2008, which amended the original landlord-tenant regulations in Dubai.
Your Responsibilities as a Landlord
As a landlord, you are required to hand over the property in good condition, allowing the tenant to fully use it as agreed in the lease. This obligation is clearly defined under Dubai Rent Law.
Unless the lease states otherwise, the landlord is also responsible for maintenance and repairs during the lease term, particularly those that affect the tenant’s ability to use the property as intended. This includes fixing defects or damage that are not caused by the tenant.
In addition, landlords are not permitted to make changes to the property that interfere with the tenant’s use. If such changes lead to damage or disruption, the landlord remains liable, even if the work is carried out by someone authorised on their behalf.
Protecting Both Parties
Dubai’s rental laws are designed to balance the rights of landlords and tenants. A clear lease agreement, proper registration with Rera, and a well-maintained property help prevent disputes and protect both sides throughout the tenancy.
For homeowners, understanding these responsibilities upfront makes the rental process smoother and more secure. While using a licensed agent is optional, following the legal framework is not