Plan
- Record the condition of the apartment upon vacating (photos, videos, handover report).
- Request a written explanation for the retention of the deposit.
- Demand a calculation of the retained amounts with supporting documents.
- In case of unjustified refusal — file a claim with the RDC.
Legal Basis
The relationship between tenant and landlord is governed by Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007, as amended by Dubai Law No. 33 of 2008.
The deposit serves as security for the tenant’s obligations (including possible damage to the property). However, the landlord is entitled to retain an amount only where there is proven damage exceeding normal wear and tear.
In the absence of documented grounds, retention of the deposit constitutes a breach of the lease agreement.
In such situations, the tenant is entitled to apply to the specialised judicial body — the Rental Dispute Centre (RDC) at the Dubai Land Department — for dispute resolution. The RDC has jurisdiction over all disputes between landlords and tenants, including issues relating to deposit refunds and other breaches of lease terms, and it issues de...