Can a landlord refuse to renew a tenancy?

A landlord cannot simply refuse to renew a tenancy without a valid legal reason.

Under Article 14 of Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007, as amended by Law No. 33 of 2008, any changes to the tenancy terms must be notified at least 90 days before the contract expires, unless otherwise agreed.

If the landlord wants the tenant to vacate because they intend to sell the property, use it personally, or give it to a first-degree relative, this falls under Article 25. The landlord must give at least 12 months’ written notice, served through a Notary Public or by registered mail.

If proper notice is not given, the tenancy may renew on the same terms under Article 6 of Law No. 26 of 2007.

Prosper sends you automatic renewal alerts 100 days before your contract expires — giving you and your landlord enough runway to issue notices correctly and avoid disputes over deemed renewals.