Sharjah Rent Increase Rules
Under Sharjah Law No. 5 of 2024, a landlord cannot increase the rent during the first three years of a tenancy. After three years, the rent may be raised only once every two years, it must match the fair market value for similar units, and the tenant must be given at least ninety days written notice. An earlier increase is only possible if both parties agree.
- No increase in the first three years
- After that, once every two years
- 90 days written notice required
- Must match fair market value
The three-year protection
Sharjah gives tenants a strong protection at the start of a tenancy. From the date the contract begins, the landlord cannot raise the rent for a minimum of three years, whatever happens to the market, inflation or building upgrades. The only exception is if the tenant agrees to an increase, and even then the clock resets.
After the first three years
Once three years have passed, an increase is allowed but limited. It can happen only once every two years, and the new figure has to align with the fair market value of comparable units in the area rather than an arbitrary jump. If the tenant agreed to an earlier increase, the landlord cannot raise it again until two years from that increase.
Notice you must receive
Before any increase takes effect, the landlord has to give at least ninety days written notice before the contract expires. Without that notice, the increase does not apply and the existing rent carries into the renewal.
How Sharjah compares
| Feature | Sharjah | Dubai |
|---|---|---|
| Early tenancy | No increase for three years | Increase allowed within the index cap |
| Frequency | Once every two years after year three | At renewal, within Decree 43 |
| Benchmark | Fair market value | Smart Rental Index |
| Notice | 90 days | 90 days |
Prefer to do it yourself?
Read the Sharjah tenancy guide, and for the Dubai comparison see the Dubai rent increase rules.
Frequently asked questions
Can my landlord raise the rent in Sharjah?
Not during the first three years of the tenancy. After that, only once every two years, in line with fair market value and with 90 days notice.
What is the three-year rule?
Under Sharjah Law No. 5 of 2024, rent cannot be increased for the first three years of a contract unless the tenant agrees.
How much notice is needed?
At least ninety days written notice before the contract expires.
Does Sharjah use a rental index?
No. Increases must align with fair market value for comparable units rather than a published index.
Official reference: Sharjah Municipality.
Rules are set by the authority and can change. Confirm the current position through the official channel.
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