How much does it cost to file a rental dispute in Dubai?

The RDC filing fee is 3.5% of the annual rent amount, with a minimum of AED 500 and a maximum of AED 20,000. This rate applies to eviction and renewal cases; money claims such as a deposit refund are charged 3.5% of the amount claimed (maximum AED 15,000), plus small service fees. Half the fee is refunded if the dispute is settled amicably, and the tribunal may order the losing party to reimburse it.

How long does the RDC dispute process take?

Under Decree 26/2013, the RDC first tries to settle the dispute amicably within 15 days. If that fails, the tribunal must decide within 30 days of the case being referred to it, which can be extended. Appeals add time. The first session is usually set about a week after the fee is paid.

Do I need a lawyer to file at the RDC?

No, you do not need a lawyer to file at the RDC. The process is designed for individuals to represent themselves. However, for complex cases or large financial amounts, having legal representation can strengthen your case.

How to File a Rental Dispute in Dubai (Step by Step)

The Rental Disputes Centre (RDC), also known as the Rental Disputes Settlement Centre (RDSC), is the official body in Dubai that resolves landlord-tenant disputes. Here's your complete guide to filing a case.

When to File at the RDC

You should consider filing at the RDC when:

Your landlord has imposed an illegal rent increase and refuses to correct it
Your landlord refuses to return your security deposit
Your landlord has failed to maintain the property (structural issues, A/C, plumbing)
Your landlord is attempting an illegal eviction
Your landlord refuses to register Ejari
Your landlord has cut utilities (water, electricity, A/C)
Any other breach of the tenancy contract or UAE tenancy law

Before You File: Preparation Checklist

Having the right documents dramatically increases your chances of a favourable outcome:

Tenancy contract: Original signed copy
Ejari certificate: Proof of registered tenancy
Emirates ID: Valid identification
Evidence of the dispute: Written communications (emails, WhatsApp messages, letters)
Financial records: Rent payment receipts, deposit payment proof, bank statements
Photos/videos: Relevant to maintenance disputes or property condition
RERA calculator result: For rent increase disputes, use our rent checker
Formal notice: Evidence that you attempted to resolve the issue first

Step-by-Step Filing Process

Step 1: Attempt Resolution First

Before filing, send a formal notice to your landlord. This shows the RDC that you tried to resolve the matter amicably. Use our notice generator to create a properly formatted notice.

Step 2: File Your Case

You can file a case through:

Dubai REST app: File through the DLD mobile application
In person: Visit the RDC office at the Dubai Land Department headquarters
Online: Through the RDC website (rdc.gov.ae) or the Dubai REST app
In person: At an RDC-approved real estate services trustee centre

Step 3: Pay the Filing Fee

The filing fee is 3.5% of the annual rent, with:

Minimum fee: AED 500
Maximum fee: AED 20,000

Example: For an annual rent of AED 80,000, the filing fee would be AED 2,800.

Step 4: Reconciliation Meeting

The RDC first attempts mediation between both parties. A conciliation officer will hear both sides and try to reach an agreement. Many disputes are resolved at this stage.

Step 5: Hearing (if mediation fails)

If mediation fails, the case goes to a tribunal chaired by a judge with two specialist members. Both parties present their evidence and arguments, and the tribunal issues a judgment. Either side can appeal within 15 days, although money claims under AED 100,000 generally cannot be appealed.

Step 6: Decision and Enforcement

The RDC's decision is legally binding. If the losing party does not comply, the winning party can open an execution file with the RDC's own judgment enforcement department.

Tips for a Stronger Case

Document everything from day one: Keep all communications, receipts, and photos
Always communicate in writing: Email or registered post, not just phone calls
Send formal notices before filing: It shows good faith and strengthens your case
Bring organized evidence: Chronological, labelled, and easy for the committee to follow
Be factual and calm: Present facts and law references, not emotions
Reference specific laws: Cite the exact articles of Law 26/2007, Law 33/2008, or Decree 43/2013

Get Started

Before filing at the RDC, make sure you have a strong case. Check your rent increase legality, generate a formal notice, and gather your documentation.

Related Resources

Complete Guide to Tenant Rights in Dubai
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