CAN LANDLORDS SWITCH FROM LONG-TERM TO SHORT-TERM RENTALS IN DUBAI?

With tourism growing and short-term rentals becoming more popular, many property owners in Dubai are exploring holiday homes as a way to earn higher returns. In peak seasons, short-term rentals can often generate more income than long-term leases. This makes the option attractive for owners looking to maximise profits.

However, this shift can be worrying for tenants. Many long-term renters fear sudden eviction if a landlord decides to move their property into the short-term or holiday rental market. This concern has become more common as platforms for short stays continue to grow across Dubai.

Dubai’s rental laws are clear on this matter.

A landlord cannot evict a tenant simply to convert a property into a short-term rental. Changing the rental strategy is considered a business decision, not a legal reason for eviction. Even if short-term rentals are more profitable, this alone does not allow a landlord to ask a tenant to leave.

Under Dubai tenancy law, eviction is only permitted for specific reasons. These include selling the property, using it for the landlord or an immediate family member, major renovations that require the unit to be vacant, or demolition. Even in these cases, a proper written notice must be served according to legal timelines.

This means tenants are protected from being forced out just because the owner wants higher returns. If a landlord issues an eviction notice for short-term rental purposes, tenants have the right to challenge it through the Rental Dispute Centre.

For property owners, this highlights the importance of planning ahead. Decisions about switching to short-term rentals should be made once a tenancy naturally ends, not during an active lease. For tenants, it offers reassurance that Dubai’s rental system prioritises stability and fairness.

Understanding these rules helps both landlords and tenants make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary disputes that come after your property transaction is done. Get professional assistance from experts who guide you through and even beyond your transaction, offering you a peace of mind.