Previously, Dubai landlords could seek a rental evaluation to adjust rental rates based on the outdated calculator’s benchmark

Dubai landlords have the option to request for a rent re-evaluation with RERA if they believe their property warrants a higher rental rate than indicated by the updated Rental Index.
However, in line with new regulations from the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA), landlords must now provide a judgment or legal order when submitting such requests, effective April 1.
According to information available on the Ejari portal, landlords must initiate the process through the Rental Dispute Centre (RDC) and apply for a case to obtain the necessary legal order.
Previously, landlords could seek a rental evaluation to adjust rental rates based on the outdated calculator’s benchmark.

What is the RERA calculator reset?

RERA introduced a revised calculator on March 1, now designated as the sole tool for determining rental increases.
Landlords could previously apply for a rental evaluation to adjust prices based on the outdated calculator’s benchmark.
However, the updated system restricts property owners from exceeding the benchmark, enhancing transparency and reliability for tenants. Landlords retain the option for re-evaluations, though with revised procedures.
“Early figures show that as of Q1 this year, 72,885 rental contracts have been renewed, which equates to 145,770 tenant and landlord decisions. With that kind of volume, it makes sense for the RERA calculator to be used as the single source of truth. Adding this layer of legal requirements allows landlords and tenants alike to be sure that valuation changes are vetted fairly against the updated calculator,” Anisha Sagar, Director of Property Management at Allsopp & Allsopp Group said.
The decline in rental contract renewals, down by 7.2 percent year-on-year, suggests a shift towards tenant home-ownership, spurred by rising rents.

What does this mean for Dubai tenants?

The reset of the RERA rent calculator is expected to encourage tenants to explore homeownership options further, according to Svetlana Vasilieva, Head of Secondary Sales at Metropolitan Homes.
“Tenants are exploring not just completed properties but also those nearing completion (six-12 months away) due to attractive post-handover payment plans offered by many developers. This trend empowers tenants to invest in their long-term future by securing a permanent home for themselves and their families without the stress of paying higher rents during contract renewal,” she concluded.

Source:arabianbusiness.com