The rental increase cap limits how much a landlord can raise the rent on renewal in Dubai. The permitted increase depends on how far the current rent sits below the market rate for similar properties, measured against the official rental index.
Where you’ll see it
You’ll meet the cap at renewal time. The RERA rental index and calculator are used to compare the current rent to the market; the further below market the rent is, the larger the increase a landlord may apply, up to defined tiers. If the rent is close to market, no increase may be allowed.
Why it matters
The cap protects tenants from arbitrary rises and gives landlords a clear, lawful ceiling. An increase above what the index permits can be challenged at the rental disputes centre, so both sides benefit from checking the calculator before agreeing a renewal.
What it is not
The cap is not a fixed percentage applied to every renewal, it is tiered and depends on the gap to market rent. It is also not the same as an eviction; raising rent within the cap is lawful, while eviction follows its own separate notice rules.
Example
At renewal, a tenant’s rent is found to be well below market on the RERA index, so the landlord is permitted a capped percentage increase not an unlimited one for the next term.
Connected documents and parties
Tenancy contract, RERA rental index/calculator, renewal notice; landlord, tenant, RERA, rental disputes centre.
Going deeper: if a proposed increase is disputed, see the rental dispute guidance.
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Last reviewed: June 2026