RERA Dubai 2025. Your Complete Guide to Real Estate Regulations
By Royal Tiara Real Estate Brokers
Dubai’s real estate market continues to grow in 2025, with new developments, strong rental demand, and rising foreign investment. At the core of this growth is RERA – the Real Estate Regulatory Agency, which ensures the market remains transparent, fair, and well-regulated for all participants.
Whether you’re a tenant, buyer, investor, or agent, understanding RERA’s rules and services is essential. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about RERA regulations, processes, tools, and protections in 2025.
What is RERA?
RERA is the regulatory arm of the Dubai Land Department (DLD), established in 2007 to oversee and manage the city’s real estate sector. Its main goal is to ensure transparency, protect stakeholders, and promote ethical practices in Dubai’s dynamic property market.
In 2025, with Dubai’s population projected at over 3.6 million and real estate contributing nearly 7% of GDP, RERA plays a vital role in maintaining investor confidence and supporting Vision 2040.
Why RERA Matters in 2025
RERA protects all parties in the real estate ecosystem. Without this regulation, the market would risk unlicensed agents, unclear contracts, and unfair practices. Instead, RERA enforces:
- Transparency – All real estate transactions are documented and traceable.
- Security – Buyers, tenants, and investors have legal recourse.
- Professionalism – Only certified agents and developers can legally operate in the market.
In 2025, RERA also introduced smart tools like the Smart Rental Index, making rent regulation faster and more accurate.
Key RERA Regulations You Should Know
Tenancy Rules and Rent Increases
RERA enforces rent increase limits based on how far your current rent is from the market average. Increases must follow the below structure:
| Difference from Market Rent | Max Increase Allowed |
|---|---|
| Less than 10% | 0% |
| 11% to 20% | Up to 5% |
| 21% to 30% | Up to 10% |
| 31% to 40% | Up to 15% |
| More than 40% | Up to 20% |
Notice of any increase must be given at least 90 days in advance through the Ejari-registered contract.
Escrow Accounts for Off-Plan Projects
Developers must deposit all payments for off-plan properties into RERA-approved escrow accounts. This ensures funds are only used for the specific project and adds a layer of safety for investors.
Real Estate Advertising
All property advertisements in Dubai must be pre-approved by RERA and carry a QR code verifying legitimacy. This helps prevent fraud and misrepresentation.
Broker Certification
Agents must complete RERA training, pass the exam, and hold a valid license. Operating without certification is illegal and punishable by fines.
RERA Tools You Can Use
In 2025, RERA introduced several user-friendly platforms to make the real estate process more efficient:
- Smart Rental Index Calculator: Replaces the old Rent Calculator. It offers live rent comparisons using artificial intelligence.
- Dubai REST App: A comprehensive app to manage property documents, verify developers or agents, and track off-plan project progress.
- Ejari: A digital registration platform that centralizes all rental contracts in Dubai and protects both tenants and landlords in disputes.
How to Register with Ejari – Step by Step
- Prepare Documents: Passport, visa, Emirates ID, tenancy contract, landlord’s title deed, and DEWA bill.
- Login: Use your UAE Pass to access the Ejari portal or the Dubai REST app.
- Submit Details: Fill in the property and tenant information.
- Upload Files: Upload all required documents in PDF format.
- Payment: Pay AED 155 (plus VAT) through digital payment options.
- Receive Certificate: Get your Ejari certificate with a barcode within 24 hours.
Tip: While either party can register, the landlord usually handles this.
How to File a Complaint with RERA (RDC)
If you’re facing an issue like an unfair eviction or rent increase, use the Rental Disputes Center (RDC) to resolve it:
- Check Eligibility: Make sure the issue is under RERA jurisdiction.
- Collect Evidence: Contracts, payment receipts, Ejari certificate, and communication history.
- Submit Online: Through the Dubai REST app or in person at an RDC office.
- Pay Fees: Starts at AED 500 and varies depending on your case.
- Attend Hearing: Many hearings are done remotely. Most decisions are issued within 30 days.
How RERA Protects Tenants
RERA ensures a balanced relationship between landlords and tenants:
- Rent Regulation: Limits increases using the Smart Rental Index.
- Eviction Rules: Landlords must give 12 months’ written notice through a notary.
- Maintenance Responsibility: Landlords must handle major repairs (as per Article 16 of Law No. 26).
- Dispute Resolution: The RDC offers fast and fair conflict resolution.
RERA’s Role for Investors and Buyers
- Project Oversight: Developers must be registered and follow RERA guidelines.
- Fund Safety: All off-plan payments are held in escrow.
- Ownership Protection: Title deeds and ownership rights are clearly defined.
- Digital Access: Monitor construction and transactions via the Dubai REST app.
How to Become a RERA-Certified Real Estate Professional
- Hold a UAE Residency Visa
- Apply Through Dubai Land Department
- Complete Training at the Dubai Real Estate Institute (DREI)
- Pass the RERA Certification Exam
- Submit Your Application and Documents
- Receive Your License (valid for 1 to 2 years)
You must renew the license at least 60 days before expiration to avoid penalties.
FAQs – RERA Dubai 2025
How do I check if my rent increase is legal?
Use the Smart Rental Index on the Dubai REST app. It shows the maximum legal increase based on current market rates.
What changed in the new Smart Rental Index?
The tool now uses real-time data and AI to replace the old calculator, giving more accurate results instantly.
Can a landlord evict me to raise rent?
No. A landlord can only evict for legal reasons such as selling the property or moving in, and must give 12 months’ notice.
What happens if my landlord does not register with Ejari?
The tenancy contract is not legally enforceable without Ejari. This can make it difficult to file disputes or renewals.
How do I check if a developer is RERA-approved?
Use the Dubai REST app or verify directly through the Dubai Land Department’s online portal.
Is my off-plan investment safe under RERA?
Yes. RERA requires escrow protection, registered developers, and tracked progress for off-plan investments.
How long does it take to get RERA certified?
The full process usually takes 1 to 2 months, including training and exam completion.
How much does RERA certification cost in 2025?
Fees depend on the course and application. Training costs start from around AED 2,500 to AED 3,000.
When should I renew my RERA license?
You must renew your license at least 60 days before it expires to stay compliant and avoid fines.
