Things to Know About Dubai Property Law

Things to Know About Dubai Property Law Moving to Dubai can be an exciting time as it offers a wide array of top-of-the-line accommodation. Updates to the RERA calculator could be reducing property costs, but that does not mean that the laws have changed. So, before you buy or rent just about any home, it pays to educate yourself about your rights and Dubai property law, which can be complicated and could lead you into some costly pitfalls. Here are some of the things you must know: On renting Around 67 percent of people in Dubai rent property. To avoid issues on eviction and false contracts, it pays to do your homework and possibly consult with a lawyer on a Dubai property lawyer. You may want to consider who to live with, preferably with a work colleague or friends. Keep in mind that living with an unmarried partner is a ‘voluntary debasement’ crime under article 356 of the Penal Code. It could result in a penalty of at least a one-year custodial sentence.

When paying DEWA bills, it must be done only by the person whose name is on the bill. There is only a single person who can do that per household unless you are a married couple with a registered joint account.

Regarding tenancy contracts, make sure that the broker is registered with RERA and that you are registered with Ejari (My Rent), Dubai’s main rent regulator that protects tenancy agreements. When in doubt, consult with a Dubai property lawyer. Remember that any clause saying that the contract is non-renewable is illegal, if not accompanied by any valid eviction notice.

On buying property Most of the difficulties associated with buying a property in Dubai have to do with misunderstandings about the purchase and the initial paperwork involved. For instance, ‘freehold’ has a different meaning in the UAE. Emirati nationals may buy freehold property anywhere, and GCC nationals should own property only in specific investment zones. For others, buying is equivalent to what is downright a long-term lease in multi-story developments. That doesn’t include the land under the building concerned within the same investment zones.

You can avoid the guesswork and making costly mistakes when you work with an experienced Dubai property lawyer. They will work closely with you and tailor their service to suit your unique circumstances.