Disputes & Rights · Dubai
How to file a complaint at
Dubai's Rental Dispute Centre
The Rental Dispute Centre (RDC) is Dubai's official judicial body for landlord-tenant disputes. It operates under the Dubai Land Department. Cases are typically resolved within 15–30 days through arbitration.
0
What type of dispute do you have?
The RDC handles all types of landlord-tenant disputes. Identify your case type — it affects what evidence you need.
Security deposit not returned
Illegal rent increase
Wrongful eviction
Maintenance refused
Contract breach
Early termination
⚠️ The RDC only accepts cases for properties registered in Dubai. Properties in free zones with their own courts (e.g. DIFC) may have different dispute mechanisms.
1
Send a formal written notice first
Before filing with the RDC, send a written notice to the other party stating the issue and what you are requesting. Email or WhatsApp is acceptable — keep screenshots of everything.
This step shows the RDC that you tried to resolve the issue directly. In some cases, it's enough to get the other party to respond.
◆
Was the issue resolved after your notice?
✓ Yes
Done — no RDC needed
Get any agreement in writing. If it involves deposit, confirm receipt.
✗ No response / refused
Proceed to RDC filing
Continue with the steps below.
No resolution → proceed
2
Gather your evidence and documents
Prepare everything before filing. The stronger your evidence, the faster the resolution.
- Tenancy contract (signed, DLD format)
- Ejari certificate (valid registration)
- Proof of payments — rent receipts, cheque copies, bank transfers
- Communication records — emails, WhatsApp, letters
- Photos or videos (for maintenance/damage disputes)
- Handover report (for deposit disputes)
- Move-out notice if applicable
For rent increase disputes: check the RERA rent increase calculator on the DLD website and download a screenshot showing the legal limit for your property.
3
Go to rdc.gov.ae and file your case
Visit rdc.gov.ae and log in (or create an account). Select File a New Case. Enter:
- Your details (claimant)
- The other party's details (respondent)
- Case type and description
- Amount claimed (for financial disputes)
You can also file in person at the RDC office inside the Dubai Courts building, Bur Dubai. Online filing is available 24/7 and does not require a visit.
4
Pay the filing fee
The RDC filing fee is calculated as a percentage of what you are claiming.
| Fee rate | 3.5% of the annual rent or claimed amount |
| Minimum fee | AED 500 |
| Maximum fee (rental cases) | AED 20,000 |
| Maximum fee (financial claims) | AED 15,000 |
Example: if your annual rent is AED 60,000 and you are claiming 1 month's deposit back, the fee is 3.5% × AED 60,000 = AED 2,100. If you win, the other party may be ordered to reimburse your filing fee.
5
Receive your case number and hearing date
After filing, you receive a case number and are assigned to the Arbitration Department. Both parties are notified. The hearing date is usually within 7–15 days.
You can track your case status online at rdc.gov.ae using your case number. You will receive SMS updates as the case progresses.
✓
Arbitration — resolved in 15–30 days
Both parties attend the hearing (in person or via video call). The arbitrator reviews evidence and issues a binding decision. Most straightforward cases resolve in a single session.
Day 1–3
Case registered, other party notified
Day 7–15
First hearing — arbitration session
Day 15–30
Decision issued, binding on both parties
If no appeal
Decision is enforceable via Dubai Courts
⚠️
Rent increase disputes — know the law first
A landlord cannot increase rent mid-contract. At renewal, increases are limited by RERA's rent calculator based on the gap between your rent and market average:
| Your rent is within 10% of market rate | 0% increase (no increase allowed) |
| 11–20% below market | Max 5% |
| 21–30% below market | Max 10% |
| 31–40% below market | Max 15% |
| More than 40% below market | Max 20% |
Notice period: the landlord must give you 90 days written notice before any increase takes effect. Less than 90 days = not enforceable.
Start with a proper contract
Many disputes arise from informal or incomplete tenancy contracts. Ejari Helper generates a legally compliant DLD-format contract that clearly states all terms. 30 AED, no account required.
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