Dubai landlord refusing to return your security deposit? Here's what tenants can do
Dubai: Moving out of a rented property does not always mean getting your security deposit back immediately. Disagreements over maintenance charges, repainting costs and alleged property damage can leave tenants waiting for their money, sometimes long after handing over the keys. But what can tenants do if their landlord refuses to refund the deposit, and when should they consider filing a rental…
Dubai tenants facing disputes over security deposits have several steps they can take. First, review the tenancy contract and Ejari registration to confirm the deposit amount, lease length and maintenance duties. The landlord may only retain funds to cover property upkeep, as stipulated in Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007. Preserve proof of the property's condition upon move-in and move-out, such as signed handover forms, key receipts, and inspection reports.
According to Article 21 of the same law, tenants must return the unit in the same state as received, barring normal wear and tear. Clear any outstanding utility bills before requesting a refund and request an itemized list of deductions if the landlord refuses full repayment. Request photographic evidence of alleged damage and third-party repair invoices to assess if deductions are warranted.
If unresolved, send a formal written demand with a deadline and reference the relevant laws. Lastly, if negotiations fail, file a claim with Dubai's Rental Disputes Centre (RDC), keeping records of all correspondence.
Written by urgent.news from Gulf News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
