Living in an apartment in Sharjah, tenants may face issues with landlords increasing rent yearly. However, according to Article 16 of Law No. 5 of 2024 regarding Real Estate Leasing in the Emirate of Sharjah, landlords cannot increase rent until the completion of the first three years of a tenancy contract unless both parties mutually agree to increase rent. If a tenant agrees to a rent increase during these three years, the landlord cannot raise the rent again for an additional two years.
The law also stipulates that the increase in rent value after the initial three years must be at the fair rent value, with the executive regulations determining the controls for the fair rent and how to calculate it. The Council (Executive Council of the Emirate of Sharjah) has the authority to amend the periods specified in the law. Therefore, based on these regulations, a landlord cannot raise rent for five consecutive years without adhering to the three-year limit.
If a tenant has been subject to annual rent increases for five years, they may address the issue directly with the landlord. If necessary, they can seek assistance from the Sharjah Municipality, which handles disputes between landlords and tenants. Furthermore, the Ruler of Sharjah has recently issued Law No. 6 of 2024 on the establishment and organization of the Rental Disputes Centre in the Emirate of Sharjah, ensuring that all future disputes between landlords and tenants in Sharjah will be dealt with effectively.
Ashish Mehta, the founder and Managing Partner of Ashish Mehta & Associates, provides legal advice on such matters. He is qualified to practice law in Dubai, the United Kingdom, and India. Tenants can contact his firm for assistance with any legal questions or concerns regarding landlord-tenant issues. With a comprehensive understanding of the laws governing real estate leasing in Sharjah, tenants can protect their rights and ensure fair treatment by their landlords.
