Why tenants need this guide?

If you’re renting in Dubai, you’ve probably had that sinking feeling: your landlord says the rent is going up - and you’re not sure if it’s even legal.

Dubai has strict rent increase rules, and tenants have rights. The RERA Rent Calculator, an official tool from the Dubai Land Department (DLD), helps you check whether your landlord’s demand is fair or not.

This guide will walk you through the calculator step by step, explain the rules behind it, and answer the common “what if” scenarios tenants face.

What is the RERA Rent Calculator?

Think of it as a rent reality check.

• It compares your current rent with average market prices for your area.
• It then tells you whether your landlord is allowed to raise your rent — and by how much.
• If your rent is already close to the market average, the calculator will say “No increase allowed.”

How Rent Increases Work in 2025

Dubai’s rental law is based on how much lower your current rent is compared to the official market average.

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Example: If your rent is only 8% below the average, your landlord cannot legally increase your rent at all.

Step-by-Step: How Tenants Can Use the Calculator

1. Open the tool:
   • Visit the DLD Rental Index
   • Use the Dubai REST app (iOS & Android)
2. Enter your details
   • Type of property (apartent/villa)
   • Area & number of bedrooms
   • Current rent amount
   • Lease expiry date
3. Check the result
   • The calculator will show the average rent for your area.
   • It will also say if a rent increase is allowed and the maximum percentage.

Example:

Tip: Take a screenshot of the result - it's your proof if you ever need to challenge an increase.

Tenant Rights You Should Know

• 90 - day Notice Rule: Your landlord must give you written notice at least 90 days before your lease ends if they want to increase rent. Less than that and the increase is invalid.
• One Increase per Year: Rent can go up once a year, at renewal.
• Calculator Is The Law: Even if "the market is hot" your landlord can't go beyond what the calculator allows.

Common Tenant Scenarios (And Answers)

1. My landlord raised rent without notice. What should i do?
   • Illegal. Without 90 days' written notice, you can refuse the increase.
2. My landlord says "everyone in the building is paying more."
   
   • Doesn't matter. Only the calculator result is valid.
3. The calculator says "no increase" , but my landlord insists.
   • Show them the calculator result. if they refuse, you can file a case with the Rental Dispute Center (RDC).
4. Can rent be increased during the contract (not at renewal)?
   • No. Rent can only change when the contract is up for renewal.

Why Tenants Should Always Use the Calculator

• Protect yourself from unfair hikes
• Save money - don't pay for more than the law allows.
• Reduce stress in negotiations with the landlord
• Back up your rights with proof (screenshots carry weight in disputes)

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The bottom line is - landlords usually know by how much they are allowed to raise the rent. Most of the times, they see the market average for new contract going up, so they want to try their luck. Do not give in and always do your own research.

For tenants in Dubai, the RERA Rent Calculator is your best defense against unfair rent increases. It's simple to use, legally binding, and most importantly - it's free.