Question: I currently reside in a Dubai apartment, and my landlord has raised the rent by 20%, although the Rera rent calculator allows only a 10% increase. A judge at the Rental Dispute Centre ruled in my favor. However, I have now received notice from the landlord stating that I will be charged extra for amenities such as a swimming pool and gym, which I wasn’t previously paying for. Is this legally permissible?
Answer: In response to your queries, since you are a tenant in a rented apartment in the Emirate of Dubai, the provisions of Law No. 26 of 2007, which regulates the relationship between landlords and tenants in Dubai, apply.
In Dubai, the amenities within a rented apartment building are considered part of the rent. Therefore, a tenant is not obliged to pay additional rent or charges for using these amenities unless there is a prior agreement with the landlord. Article 11 of the Dubai Rent Law specifically states:
“Unless otherwise agreed, the Rent shall cover the use of the Real Property facilities, such as swimming pools, playgrounds, gymnasiums, health clubs, car parks, and other facilities.”
Based on this provision of the law, your landlord cannot impose additional fees for the use of amenities within the apartment building, especially if you were not charged for them previously. You can inform your landlord that the Dubai Rent Law prohibits such additional charges. If your landlord does not agree, you have the option to file a complaint against them with the Dubai Rental Dispute Centre.
