Dubai’s competitive rental market attracts tenants and landlords from around the world. However, disputes do arise, from unpaid rent and unfair eviction notices to illegal rent increases, contract violations, and security deposit disagreements.

Filing a case at the Dubai Rent Committee, officially known as the Rental Disputes Centre (RDC), is the correct legal channel for resolving such disputes in Dubai. This guide explains how to file a case at the RDC, what documents to submit, the applicable fees, and how to track your case.

What Is the Dubai Rent Committee?

The Rental Disputes Centre (RDC), also known as the Dubai Rent Committee, is a specialised judicial body established under Decree No. 26 of 2013. It operates under the Dubai Land Department (DLD) and has exclusive authority to resolve rental disputes between landlords and tenants across Dubai, including most free zones, except those with their own dedicated dispute committees.

The RDC handles disputes, including unpaid rent, illegal rent increases, security deposit refund disputes, property maintenance failures, unauthorised subletting, cutting off essential services, property damage, and unfair eviction cases. Its judgments are legally binding and enforceable.

Documents Required to File a Case

All documents must be submitted in Arabic or accompanied by a certified Arabic translation. The RDC typist at the centre can assist with translation during in-person filing. The following documents are required:

• Copy of Emirates ID (both parties).
• Passport copy (tenant and landlord).
• Residence visa copy.
• Copy of commercial licence (if applicable).
• Ejari certificate and registered tenancy contract.
• Copy of title deed.
• Bank statement showing the plaintiff’s IBAN or a bank letter.
• Eviction notice copy with proof of delivery (if applicable).
• Proof of rent payments (cheques, bank transfers).
• Maintenance complaint records (if relevant).
• Communication records between parties (emails, registered mail).
• Bills, notices, cheques, and correspondence supporting the claim.

Fees for Filing a Case at the Dubai Rent Committee

• Rental disputes: 3.5% of the annual rent, minimum AED 500, maximum AED 20,000.
• Monetary claims only: 3.5% of the claim amount, minimum AED 500, maximum AED 15,000.
• Combined eviction and financial claims: the cap may increase to AED 35,000.
• Process serving fee: AED 100.
• Power of Attorney registration (if required): AED 25.
• Fast-track notification service: approximately AED 105 (optional).
• Knowledge fee: AED 10. Innovation fee: AED 10.

Verify the current fee schedule on the official RDC or DLD portal before filing, as minor charges may be updated.

How to File a Case Online

Online filing is available through the Rent Dispute Resolution Portal on the official Dubai Land Department website. No in-person visit is required, documents are uploaded digitally, and hearings are conducted via the RDC’s tele-litigation system.

• Visit the Dubai Land Department website and navigate to the RDC services section.
• Log in or register a new account using your Emirates ID details.
• Select the rental dispute service that matches your case type.
• Complete the case form and upload all required documents in PDF format.
• Pay the applicable fees online using an approved payment method.
• Once submitted, your case is officially registered and moves to the review stage.

How to File a Case In Person

In-person filing is available at the RDC Head Office at 10 3rd Street, Riggat Al Buteen, Deira, or at authorised service centres. An RDC typist is available on-site to help formalise your complaint, arrange Arabic translation of documents, and guide you through the submission process.

• Visit the RDC Head Office or an authorised service centre and inform staff that you wish to file a rental dispute.
• Submit your documents, and the RDC typist will verify completeness and assist with Arabic translation if needed.
• Pay the required fees and receive an official receipt.
• Your case is registered in the system, and the resolution process begins.
• Await notifications from the RDC on hearing dates and updates.

Tracking and Following Up on Your Case

Once your case is filed, track its progress through the RDC Track Your Case portal on the DLD website. Enter your case number, case type, and case year to view the current status. Hearings are conducted remotely via the tele-litigation system, so you can attend without visiting the centre in person.

Dispute Resolution Timeline

1. Amicable Settlement: The RDC’s Amicable Settlement Department attempts mediation within approximately 15 days. Around 40% of cases resolve at this stage.
2. First Instance: If mediation fails, the case moves to the First Instance Department, which targets a ruling within approximately 30 days.
3. Appeal: The losing party may appeal within 15 days of the judgment for cases exceeding AED 50,000. The appellant must deposit 50% of the awarded amount (refundable if successful). For cases exceeding AED 330,000, the case may be escalated to the Court of Cassation within 30 days of the final judgment.

Lex Estate: Your Property, Managed the Right Way

Filing a case at the Dubai Rent Committee can be done online through the DLD Rent Dispute Resolution Portal or in person at the RDC Head Office in Deira. Prepare your documents in Arabic, pay the applicable fees, and track your case online through the RDC Track Your Case portal.

Ready to make your Dubai property work harder for you? Talk to a Lex Estate specialist today.

Want to learn about Dubai Rental Laws? Read out full blog here. Dubai Rental Laws Explained: Tenancy Rights, Eviction & Disputes.

learn more about Dubai Rental Laws Explained: Tenancy Rights, Eviction & Disputes

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