How much does it cost to file at the RDC in Dubai?

The RDC filing fee is 3.5% of your annual rent, with a minimum of AED 500 and a maximum of AED 20,000. For example, if your annual rent is AED 80,000, the filing fee is AED 2,800. If you win the case, the losing party may be ordered to reimburse the fee.

Can I get the RDC filing fee refunded?

If you win your case, the RDC may order the losing party to reimburse your filing fee as part of the judgement. However, this is at the discretion of the judge and is not guaranteed in every case.

Is the RDC filing fee based on annual or monthly rent?

The filing fee is based on your annual rent as stated in your Ejari-registered tenancy contract, not the monthly amount. Multiply your monthly rent by 12 to get the annual figure.

Free Tool

RDC Filing Fee Calculator

Calculate the exact cost to file a rental dispute at Dubai's Rental Disputes Centre (RDC). Based on Decree No. 26 of 2013.

Your Annual Rent (AED)

AED

Enter the total annual rent from your tenancy contract (not monthly).

Your RDC Filing Fee

AED

Minimum fee applied (AED 500)

Maximum fee cap applied (AED 20,000)

Annual Rent

AED

Fee Percentage

3.5%

Good to know:

• If you win, the losing party may be ordered to reimburse your filing fee
• You can file online via the Dubai REST app (24/7)
• Decisions under AED 100,000 are final and cannot be appealed

Read Full RDC Filing Guide Generate a Legal Notice First

How the RDC Fee Is Calculated

Under Decree No. 26 of 2013, the RDC filing fee is calculated as follows:

Base rate 3.5% of annual rent

Minimum fee AED 500

Maximum fee AED 20,000

The fee applies to the annual rent stated in your tenancy contract (Ejari registration), not the disputed amount.

Example Fees

AED 10,000/year (room share) AED 500 (minimum)

AED 50,000/year (studio) AED 1,750

AED 80,000/year (1-bed) AED 2,800

AED 120,000/year (2-bed) AED 4,200

AED 600,000+/year (villa) AED 20,000 (capped)

Legal Disclaimer

RentShield provides general information about UAE tenancy laws and is not a substitute for professional legal advice. Fees may change. Always verify current fees with the RDC directly.