Introduction
When rental conflicts escalate in Dubai, landlords have a clear legal avenue: the Dubai Rental Dispute Center (RDC). Whether you’re dealing with unpaid rent, unauthorized subletting, or eviction resistance, the RDC is the official body that handles such issues — quickly and lawfully.
This guide explains how Dubai landlords can navigate the RDC system with confidence, from filing a case to attending hearings and enforcing judgments.
What is the Dubai Rental Dispute Center?
The Rental Dispute Center is part of the Dubai Land Department (DLD). It functions as a judicial authority dedicated solely to resolving tenancy-related conflicts.
RDC Handles:
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Unpaid rent cases
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Eviction disputes
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Lease termination disagreements
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Ejari-related conflicts
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Property damage claims
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Subletting issues
Located in Deira, the RDC streamlines real estate dispute resolution under Dubai’s rental laws.
When Should a Landlord Approach the RDC?
You should escalate your case to the RDC if:
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The tenant refuses to vacate despite proper eviction notice
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Rent has not been paid after giving 30-day warning
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There is unauthorized subletting or property misuse
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The tenant disputes a valid rent increase or refuses Ejari renewal
Important: Attempt to resolve the issue with written notices first. RDC is a formal legal step, not a starting point.
Documents You Need to File a Case
Before approaching the RDC, prepare a complete file with:
| Required Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Ejari-registered lease contract | Proof of valid tenancy agreement |
| Emirates ID or passport copy | Identity verification |
| Copy of legal notice (e.g., eviction) | Shows proper process followed |
| Payment receipts or bounced cheques | Evidence of financial breach |
| Property Title Deed | Proof of ownership |
| Screenshots/emails as communication logs | Optional but useful for evidence |
How to File a Case at the Rental Dispute Center
There are two ways to register a case:
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Via Dubai REST App or DLD website
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In person at the RDC counter
Filing Fees:
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3.5% of annual rent (maximum AED 20,000)
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AED 100–210 administrative fee
Step-by-Step Guide to File a Case
Step 1: Register Online or In-Person
Use the Dubai REST App, or visit the RDC in Deira. Provide your Emirates ID and documents.
Step 2: Upload Documents and Pay Fees
You will be asked to upload:
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Ejari
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Notices
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Contract
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Evidence
Once verified, pay the filing fee.
Step 3: Receive Case Number and Hearing Date
Within 3–7 working days, you’ll receive:
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Case number
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Assigned judge
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Initial hearing date
Step 4: Attend the Hearing
Hearings are held in person or via remote sessions. Both landlord and tenant can present evidence and arguments.
Bring physical copies of:
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Original lease
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Rent receipts
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Proof of notices served
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ID
Cases are typically resolved in one to three sessions.
Step 5: Judgment Issued
After the hearing, the RDC issues a binding legal judgment. If the decision favors the landlord:
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Eviction notice may be enforced
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Outstanding rent is legally collectible
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Tenant must vacate within court-approved timeline
Step 6: Enforcement (If Necessary)
If the tenant still refuses to comply:
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RDC may assign a court bailiff
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Bailiffs handle physical eviction or rent recovery
You can also apply to transfer the case to Execution Court for enforcement.
Timeline for Dispute Resolution
| Step | Timeframe |
|---|---|
| File case | 1–2 days |
| First hearing date | 5–10 working days |
| Judgment | Within 30 days (avg.) |
| Enforcement | 2–4 weeks post-judgment |
Common Disputes Resolved at RDC
| Dispute Type | Example Case |
|---|---|
| Non-payment of rent | Tenant refuses to pay for 2+ months |
| Eviction refusal | Tenant stays after 12-month notice |
| Property damage | Unapproved renovations or damage |
| Subletting without permission | Unauthorized third-party occupancy |
| Rental increase disagreement | Tenant refuses legal rent increase |
| Lease termination confusion | One party disputes non-renewal terms |
Tips for Landlords Using the RDC
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Always document all communication (email, WhatsApp)
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Serve notices in writing and via registered channels
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Register Ejari immediately after signing any lease
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Use legal templates for eviction and breach notices
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Do not attempt forceful eviction or lockouts — it’s illegal
Cost Breakdown for Filing an RDC Case
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| RDC Filing Fee | 3.5% of annual rent (Max AED 20,000) |
| Administrative Charges | AED 100–210 |
| Execution Fee (if needed) | 2% of total claim |
| Translation (if documents in other languages) | AED 300–500 |
Sample Scenario
Problem: Tenant hasn’t paid rent in 3 months.
Landlord’s Action:
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Issues 30-day payment warning via email and courier
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Gathers Ejari, contract, and rent statements
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Files RDC case online via Dubai REST
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Wins judgment and tenant is ordered to pay or vacate
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Bailiff enforces eviction after 2 weeks
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the RDC part of the Dubai Courts?
No. It operates under the Dubai Land Department but functions like a court for rental matters.
Can I represent myself at the RDC?
Yes. Most landlords handle their own case. You can also hire a lawyer if the case is complex.
Do I need to speak Arabic?
No. The RDC accepts English documents. Translation services are available on-site if required.
What if the tenant appeals the decision?
You can respond within the appeal timeline. However, most RDC judgments are final unless appeal criteria are met.
Can I claim rent and utility bills in the same case?
Yes, if it’s supported by the lease and documented.
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