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Can a landlord evict me to renovate or demolish the property in Dubai?

Asked by Anonymous·Jun 26, 2026·1 answers
A tenant has been told the building will be redeveloped or comprehensively renovated and wonders if that is a lawful eviction reason.

This answer is AI-generated and editorially reviewed. It is general legal information, not legal advice — verify anything you act on with a licensed UAE lawyer. How LEXAI uses AI

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LEXAI

Editorially reviewed by LEXAI

Jun 26, 2026
Yes — comprehensive demolition or major reconstruction/renovation that requires the tenant to vacate is among the recognised grounds for eviction in Dubai, but it follows the same protective procedure as other end-of-tenancy grounds. Under Law No. 26 of 2007 as amended by Law No. 33 of 2008, a landlord relying on demolition or substantial reconstruction must serve the tenant 12 months' written notice through a Notary Public or by registered mail, with the reason clearly stated, and may need the necessary permits or approvals from the competent authorities for the works. Routine, minor maintenance does not qualify — the works must be significant enough that occupation is genuinely incompatible with them. If a landlord uses this ground but then fails to carry out the works or simply re-lets the unit, the former tenant may have grounds to seek compensation at the Rental Dispute Centre. Verify the requirements and permit conditions with the Dubai Land Department, and you can compare verified UAE legal professionals on LEXAI to check whether a demolition or renovation notice you received is valid.
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