How can your firm help with my specific legal issue?

We begin by understanding your situation in detail through an initial consultation, where our lawyers listen carefully to the facts of your case and ask the right questions to gain a full picture of your legal position. Based on this, we provide clear, practical advice tailored specifically to your needs — outlining all available options, the risks involved, and the most effective course of action to achieve your desired outcome. At Blackstone Law UAE, every case is handled with the utmost care, dedication, and confidentiality. We do not offer one-size-fits-all solutions. Whether your matter involves a family dispute, a commercial contract, a property transaction, or a criminal allegation, our team assigns the right specialist lawyer for your issue and remains with you from the first consultation through to the final resolution — ensuring you are never left without clear guidance at any stage of the process.

Do I need to visit your office in person to hire your services?

No. While we always welcome clients to our Dubai office in Business Bay, we fully understand that many of our clients are located outside the UAE or have demanding schedules that make in-person visits difficult. That is why we offer comprehensive virtual legal services, allowing you to consult with our lawyers via video call, submit documents electronically, and receive legal advice from anywhere in the world — with no compromise on the quality of service you receive. Through the UAE's advanced digital justice system, we are able to manage court filings, document submissions, and even e-notary services remotely on your behalf. From signing engagement letters to reviewing contracts and attending virtual hearings, the entire legal process can be handled online with full legal validity. Whether you are based in the UK, India, the US, or anywhere else globally, Blackstone Law UAE is fully equipped to represent your interests in the UAE without you needing to set foot in the country.

Can I get a Golden Visa through Blackstone Law UAE?

Yes. Blackstone Law UAE provides end-to-end legal assistance for UAE Golden Visa applications across multiple eligibility categories, including real estate investment, entrepreneurship, outstanding professional talent, and exceptional academic achievement. We assess your individual profile, advise on the most suitable pathway, and manage all documentation and government submissions to ensure a smooth and successful application process. For property investors, we guide you through the minimum AED 2 million investment requirement, assist with title deed verification, and coordinate with the Dubai Land Department to confirm eligibility. For professionals and entrepreneurs, we help compile the required supporting evidence and liaise with the relevant UAE authorities on your behalf. The Golden Visa grants long-term residency of 5 or 10 years and is one of the most powerful tools available for expats seeking stability and security in the UAE — and our team is experienced in securing it efficiently.

What are the legal risks of using AI in my UAE-based business?

With the introduction of the 2026 UAE AI regulations, businesses operating in the UAE are now legally accountable for the outputs and decisions generated by artificial intelligence systems used in their operations. This means that if an AI tool used by your business causes financial harm, data privacy violations, or discriminatory outcomes, your company — not the software provider — may be held legally responsible. These risks apply across industries including finance, healthcare, HR, real estate, and e-commerce. At Blackstone Law UAE, we help businesses proactively manage AI-related legal exposure by drafting comprehensive internal AI Usage Policies, liability clauses in vendor contracts, and data processing agreements that align with UAE data protection law. We also advise on intellectual property ownership of AI-generated content and help companies establish governance frameworks to demonstrate algorithmic accountability to regulators. As AI continues to reshape the business landscape in the UAE, having the right legal protections in place is no longer optional — it is essential.

What areas of law do you specialize in?

Blackstone Law UAE is a full-service law firm offering expert legal support across a broad range of practice areas designed to serve both individuals and businesses in the UAE. Our core specializations include family and personal law, corporate and commercial law, litigation and dispute resolution, real estate and property law, debt recovery, wills and succession planning, notary and supporting legal services, audit and advisory services, and citizenship by investment — specifically Turkey's CBI programme. Within each of these practice areas, our lawyers bring deep, specialist knowledge of UAE federal law, Dubai local law, and the regulatory frameworks governing free zones such as DIFC and ADGM. We serve a diverse client base that includes UAE nationals, expatriates, SMEs, multinational corporations, and high-net-worth individuals. Whether you need a one-time legal consultation or ongoing legal retainer support for your business, Blackstone Law UAE has the expertise and resources to handle your matter with precision and professionalism.

I am a non-Muslim expat; can I register a Will that follows my home country's laws?

Absolutely. Under the landmark 2022 reforms to UAE succession law, non-Muslim expatriates living in Dubai now have clear and legally protected options to ensure their assets are distributed according to their personal wishes rather than under Sharia-based inheritance principles. You can register either a DIFC Will — which is available in English and recognized internationally — or a civil Will with the Dubai Courts, both of which allow you to designate your chosen beneficiaries freely and appoint guardians for your minor children. At Blackstone Law UAE, we guide non-Muslim expats through the entire Will drafting and registration process, ensuring that your document is legally valid, precisely worded, and properly filed with the relevant authority. We also advise on cross-border estate planning — particularly important if you hold assets in multiple countries — and help you structure your Will in a way that minimizes legal complications for your family in the event of your passing. Given how many expats in the UAE have significant assets here, having a properly registered Will is one of the most important legal steps you can take to protect your family's future.

What is the 'Travel Ban' check, and can you help lift one?

A travel ban in the UAE is a legal restriction placed on an individual's ability to leave the country, and it can be issued in connection with financial disputes, unpaid debts, criminal investigations, or unresolved labour cases. Many people are unaware that a travel ban has been placed against them until they attempt to travel, which can cause serious disruption to their personal and professional lives. The ban remains in force until the underlying matter is formally resolved through the UAE courts or by mutual agreement with the opposing party. At Blackstone Law UAE, we offer a comprehensive Legal Status Check to determine whether a travel ban or any other legal restriction exists against you in the UAE court system. If a ban is confirmed, our lawyers act swiftly to identify the source of the dispute, engage with the opposing party or their legal representatives, and either negotiate a settlement or file a formal application to the court requesting the ban be lifted. Our team has experience handling travel ban cases across both civil and criminal jurisdictions in Dubai, and we understand the urgency these situations demand — working as efficiently as possible to restore your freedom of movement.

How do I legally recover a debt from a person or company in Dubai?

Debt recovery in the UAE follows a structured legal process, and engaging a qualified lawyer early significantly increases the likelihood of a successful outcome. The process typically begins with our firm drafting and sending a formal Legal Notice to the debtor — a legally recognized demand for payment that gives the debtor a final opportunity to settle before court proceedings are initiated. This step alone often results in payment, as many debtors prefer to resolve the matter privately rather than face the reputational and legal consequences of a court case. If the debt remains unpaid following the Legal Notice, Blackstone Law UAE can pursue one of two routes depending on your circumstances. For straightforward, undisputed debts, we can apply for a fast-track Performance Order — a streamlined court process that delivers a judgment quickly and cost-effectively. For more complex or contested claims, we initiate a full civil lawsuit and manage the entire litigation process through to the execution phase, which involves enforcing the court's judgment through asset seizure, bank account freezing, or salary garnishment. Our goal is not just to win the judgment, but to ensure you actually receive your money.

Can your firm help with Notary Public services for Power of Attorney?

Yes. A Power of Attorney is one of the most commonly required legal documents in the UAE, used across a wide range of situations including property transactions, business management, court representation, and banking matters. At Blackstone Law UAE, we provide a complete POA service — from drafting the document with precise and legally sound language, to witnessing your signature and coordinating with the Dubai Notary Public for official attestation, ensuring the document is fully valid for use within the UAE. We also assist with the attestation and legalization of POA documents intended for use outside the UAE, managing the process with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the relevant embassy or consulate. Whether you need a Special POA for a specific transaction — such as authorizing someone to sell your property — or a General POA granting broader authority to a trusted representative, our lawyers ensure the document accurately reflects your intentions and protects your interests. With our support, the entire process can be completed efficiently, even if you are located outside the UAE.

What are my rights if I am facing an unfair dismissal from my job?

Under the UAE Labour Law (Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021), employees are protected against arbitrary and unlawful termination. If your employer has dismissed you without a valid legal reason, without providing the required notice period, or in retaliation for exercising your legal rights — such as filing a complaint or taking sick leave — you may be entitled to claim compensation for arbitrary dismissal in addition to your full end-of-service gratuity, unpaid salary, and any accrued annual leave. The law applies to most private sector employees across the UAE, regardless of nationality. At Blackstone Law UAE, we begin by reviewing your employment contract, termination letter, and the circumstances of your dismissal to determine the strength of your claim. We then file a complaint with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE), which conducts a mandatory conciliation stage before the matter proceeds to the Labour Court. Our lawyers represent you throughout the entire process — from the initial MoHRE complaint to court hearings — and work to secure the maximum compensation you are legally entitled to. Acting quickly is important, as labour claims in the UAE must be filed within one year of the termination date.

Is Blackstone Law UAE a licensed firm, and which courts can you represent me in?

Yes, Blackstone Law UAE is a fully licensed law firm. Our advocates have the right of audience to represent clients across all UAE Federal Courts and local Emirates courts, including the Court of First Instance, Court of Appeal, and the Court of Cassation.

What is Blackstone Legal?

Blackstone Law UAE is a full-service law firm based in Business Bay, Dubai, offering expert legal services to individuals, businesses, and corporate clients across the United Arab Emirates. The firm specializes in a wide range of practice areas including litigation and dispute resolution, corporate and business law, family and personal law, real estate and property law, debt recovery, wills and succession planning, notary and supporting legal services, and citizenship by investment advisory. With a team of experienced lawyers and legal consultants, Blackstone Law UAE is committed to delivering clear, reliable, and results-driven legal guidance tailored to each client's unique needs. What sets Blackstone Law UAE apart is its client-first approach — combining deep knowledge of UAE law with practical, commercially sound advice. Whether you are an expat navigating a family dispute, a business owner setting up a company, or an investor dealing with a property matter, Blackstone Law UAE provides trusted legal support at every step. Located in the heart of Dubai's business district, the firm serves clients across all emirates and handles both local and cross-border legal matters with professionalism and discretion.

Can you own 100% of a company in the UAE?

Yes, since the landmark UAE Commercial Companies Law reform in 2021, foreign investors can now own 100% of a company on the UAE mainland without requiring a local Emirati sponsor or partner in most business sectors. Previously, foreign ownership was capped at 49%, making a local partner mandatory for mainland businesses. This change was a significant shift in UAE business law, designed to attract global investment and encourage entrepreneurship. Today, expats and international investors can establish a fully foreign-owned Limited Liability Company (LLC) across a broad range of commercial, industrial, and professional activities on the mainland. However, the rules around 100% ownership can vary depending on the business activity, the emirate, and whether the company is set up on the mainland or within a free zone. Free zones have always permitted 100% foreign ownership but come with restrictions on trading directly within the UAE market. Certain strategic sectors — such as oil and gas, security services, and some professional activities — may still require specific licensing arrangements or local partners. To ensure full compliance and choose the right structure for your business, consult with a qualified corporate lawyer in Dubai. Blackstone Law UAE can guide you through the entire company formation process, helping you select the most suitable setup for your goals.

Can I get a free lawyer in Dubai?

In the UAE, there is no universal public defender system like those found in some Western countries, meaning that free legal representation is not automatically guaranteed for all civil or commercial matters. However, there are limited avenues through which individuals may access free or subsidized legal advice. The Dubai Legal Affairs Department and the Community Development Authority occasionally offer free legal consultation sessions for UAE nationals and residents who meet certain financial criteria. Additionally, some law firms in Dubai offer a free initial consultation to assess your case before any engagement fees are discussed. For most individuals and businesses, professional legal representation in Dubai comes at a cost — and for good reason. UAE law is complex, constantly evolving, and varies significantly across different emirates, free zones, and legal jurisdictions such as DIFC and ADGM courts. Attempting to handle legal matters without proper representation — especially in areas like criminal defense, family law, or commercial disputes — can result in costly mistakes or unfavorable outcomes. At Blackstone Law UAE, we believe quality legal advice should be accessible and transparent. We offer an initial consultation to understand your situation, explain your options clearly, and provide honest guidance on the most cost-effective path forward for your case.

How does a real estate lawyer help in Dubai?

A real estate lawyer in Dubai plays a critical role in protecting your interests throughout every stage of a property transaction or dispute. Whether you are buying, selling, leasing, or investing in property, a real estate lawyer reviews and drafts contracts, conducts due diligence on the property and seller, verifies title deeds, and ensures the transaction complies with Dubai Land Department (DLD) regulations and RERA guidelines. For off-plan purchases in particular, legal oversight is essential — a qualified lawyer will scrutinize the Sale and Purchase Agreement (SPA), check the developer's RERA registration, and ensure your deposit is protected under escrow account regulations. Beyond transactions, real estate lawyers in Dubai are also essential when disputes arise. Common issues include landlord-tenant conflicts, off-plan project delays or cancellations, title deed discrepancies, boundary disputes, and developer breaches of contract. In these situations, a property lawyer can negotiate settlements, file complaints with RERA or the Rental Dispute Settlement Centre, or pursue litigation through the Dubai Courts. At Blackstone Law UAE, our real estate legal team combines in-depth knowledge of UAE property law with practical experience handling both transactional and contentious matters — giving property buyers, sellers, landlords, and investors the legal protection they need in one of the world's most dynamic real estate markets.

Back to blog June 2, 2026

Landlord vs Tenant in Dubai: Who Wins When There's a Dispute?

Your landlord just handed you a letter. You have 30 days to vacate. No explanation. No formal notice from a notary. Just a message on WhatsApp telling you the property is being "sold" and that you need to be gone by the end of next month.

Landlord vs Tenant in Dubai: Who Wins When There's a Dispute?

Published by Blackstone Law UAE | Real Estate & Property Law

Your landlord just handed you a letter. You have 30 days to vacate. No explanation. No formal notice from a notary. Just a message on WhatsApp telling you the property is being "sold" — and that you need to be gone by the end of next month.

Or maybe you are the landlord. Your tenant has not paid rent in three months, is subletting to strangers, and your calls go unanswered. You want your property back, but every time you search online you find conflicting advice about notice periods and court processes.

Both scenarios play out in Dubai every single day. The city has over 240,000 rental contracts registered in H1 2025 alone — and in a market where rents surged an average of 21% in 2024, the stakes in any tenancy dispute are very real. The good news: Dubai has one of the most structured, well-regulated rental frameworks in the world. The law has clear answers to almost every dispute situation. The challenge is knowing what those answers actually are — and knowing how to use them.

This article breaks it all down — the legal framework, the most common disputes, how the process works, and what both landlords and tenants should do when things go wrong.

The Legal Framework: Laws Every Dubai Tenant and Landlord Must Know

Law No. 26 of 2007, as amended by Law No. 33 of 2008, is the cornerstone of Dubai tenancy law — defining the rights and obligations of both parties, setting conditions for rent increases, and specifying the limited grounds on which eviction is legally permitted.

RERA (Real Estate Regulatory Agency) sets and updates the official Rental Index, which determines legally permissible rent increases. Any increase not in compliance with the RERA Rental Index is unenforceable — regardless of what the contract says.

Ejari is the mandatory registration system for all tenancy contracts. Without Ejari registration, a tenancy contract may not be fully relied upon in formal proceedings.

The Rental Disputes Centre (RDC) — established under Decree No. 26 of 2013 — is Dubai's dedicated judicial body for tenancy matters, with exclusive authority to issue legally binding judgments on eviction, rent, maintenance, and contract disputes.

The Most Common Disputes — and What the Law Says

Rent Increases: When Is an Increase Legal?

Rent increases are one of Dubai's most frequent landlord-tenant conflicts. The law is clear: any increase must be based on the RERA Rental Index, and landlords must give 90 days' written notice delivered electronically or via registered mail.

Any tenant facing a rent increase should first check the official RERA Rental Index Calculator. If the proposed increase exceeds the index, the landlord has no legal basis to enforce it.

Eviction: The Rules Landlords Frequently Get Wrong

Eviction is the most legally consequential dispute in the tenancy framework — and also the area where landlords most commonly make procedural mistakes that invalidate their entire case.

A landlord cannot evict a tenant without valid legal justification and proper notice.

For lease-end evictions, the landlord must serve a 12-month written notice via registered mail or Notary Public — not by phone, email, or WhatsApp. Anything less is struck down by the RDC.

If you are dealing with an eviction dispute, our Litigation Advisory & Dispute Resolution team can assist with legal representation and dispute resolution strategies.

Maintenance and Property Condition

The landlord is responsible for structural maintenance and ensuring the property remains safe and habitable throughout the tenancy.

Security Deposit Disputes

Security deposit deductions are only permissible for damage beyond fair wear and tear — not for normal occupancy deterioration.

How the RDC Process Actually Works

Filing a dispute with the RDC is more accessible than most people realise. Complaints can now be filed entirely online, hearings can be attended remotely, and case progress tracked digitally.

The process: once filed, the case goes to the Mediation Department, which aims for settlement within 15 days. Over 80% of cases settle here.

What to Do Right Now If You Are in a Dispute

Document everything immediately. Save all communications, notices, payment receipts, and photographs.

Check the RERA Rental Index before accepting or disputing any rent increase.

Do not take unilateral action. Tenants should not withhold rent as leverage without legal advice. Landlords should not change locks, cut utilities, or pressure tenants to leave without proper notice.

Seek legal advice before filing. The RDC is accessible, but how your case is presented determines the outcome.

For professional assistance, contact our Real Estate & Property Law team for guidance on tenancy disputes, rental claims, and property litigation matters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my landlord evict me with less than 12 months' notice?

Only in limited circumstances during the lease term — such as non-payment of rent or serious property misuse.

My landlord is threatening to cut electricity if I don't leave. Is that legal?

No. Disconnecting utilities to force a tenant to vacate is illegal under Dubai law.

I paid rent but my landlord is claiming I didn't. What do I do?

Always pay rent by bank transfer or cheque and retain proof of payment.

As a landlord, my tenant has stopped paying and won't respond. What are my options?

Issue a formal 30-day written notice via Notary Public or registered mail and proceed through the RDC if payment is not received.

How long does an RDC case typically take?

Most mediation cases settle within 15 days. Cases proceeding to a First Instance hearing generally conclude within approximately 30 days.

Is Ejari registration mandatory?

Yes. Ejari registration is legally required for all tenancy contracts in Dubai.

How Blackstone Law UAE Can Help

At Blackstone Law UAE, our property dispute lawyers in Dubai advise and represent both landlords and tenants across the full range of rental disputes — from unlawful eviction cases and contested rent increases to maintenance failures and deposit disputes.

We understand both the RERA regulatory framework and RDC procedural requirements, and we build cases that are properly documented, correctly filed, and effectively argued.

Contact Blackstone Law UAE today for a consultation. In a rental dispute, knowing the law is only half the battle — knowing how to use it is the other half.

Blackstone Law UAE | Real Estate & Property Law | Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Call & WhatsApp: +971 52 117 4506 | Email: contact@blackstonelawuae.com

Disclaimer: This article is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws and regulations are subject to change. Please consult a qualified legal professional regarding your specific circumstances.