Hi everyone,
Looking for some advice on a situation I’m dealing with in Dubai.
My lease recently expired, and I had already told the landlord I want to renew at the same rent (RERA index shows no increase). I’ve sent the rent cheques at the original amount, and they’ve confirmed they’re going ahead and depositing them.
Now they’re asking for an extra “admin fee” of around AED 1,500, which was never in my previous contract.
What’s worrying is their latest email says they’ll prepare the tenancy contract, but:
- they won’t issue Ejari unless I pay the admin fee
- they won’t provide maintenance either unless it’s paid
So basically they’re taking the rent but not fulfilling their side.
Just trying to understand:
- Is this actually allowed?
- Does the fact that they’re depositing the cheques help my position?
- What’s the best way to handle this from here?
Ideally, I want to sort this out without paying the fee and without getting into any legal costs if possible.
Would really appreciate any advice from people who’ve been through something similar. Thanks 🙏