How to Serve a Tenancy Notice in Dubai
How you serve a tenancy notice decides whether it counts. To evict at the end of a contract, the 12-month notice must go through a notary public or by registered mail and state the reason. To change the rent or terms at renewal, written notice at least 90 days before expiry is enough. A verbal notice or a WhatsApp message is not valid for eviction, so use the proper method and keep proof of delivery.
- Eviction notice via notary or registered mail
- Rent-change notice in writing, 90 days ahead
- Verbal or WhatsApp notice is not valid
- Keep proof of delivery
Match the notice to the purpose
| Purpose | Method | Timing |
|---|---|---|
| Evict at expiry | Notary public or registered mail, stating the reason | 12 months before expiry |
| Change rent or terms | Written notice | At least 90 days before expiry |
| Renewal or non-renewal | Written notice | Before expiry, per the contract |
Why the method matters
The 12-month eviction notice is only valid if served formally, through a notary or registered mail, and if it states a lawful Article 25 reason. If it was not served that way, the eviction does not stand and the contract can renew. For rent or term changes, written notice with a clear date is what proves the 90-day rule was met.
Keep the proof
Whichever notice you serve or receive, keep the dated proof: the notarised copy, the registered-mail receipt, or the written notice with its delivery record. In a dispute, the date and the method are exactly what the Rental Dispute Center checks.
Prefer to do it yourself?
Generate the right letter with the Renewal Notice, Non-Renewal Notice or Early Termination Letter.
Frequently asked questions
How do I serve an eviction notice in Dubai?
Through a notary public or by registered mail, stating a valid reason, at least 12 months before the contract expires.
Is a WhatsApp notice valid?
Not for eviction. The 12-month notice must go through a notary or registered mail.
How much notice to change the rent?
At least 90 days written notice before the contract expires.
What proof should I keep?
The notarised copy or registered-mail receipt, with the date, since that is what the RDC checks.
Official reference: Dubai Land Department.
This is general information, not legal advice. Consult a licensed lawyer for your situation.
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