How to File a Rental Dispute in Dubai (RDSC)
Filing a rental dispute at Dubai's RDSC in 2026 follows clear steps, fixed fees, and short timelines. Know the exact process, evidence needed, and what happens after submission.
Who handles rental disputes in Dubai
The Rental Dispute Settlement Centre, or RDSC, is the official body under Dubai Courts that resolves landlord-tenant conflicts. It covers issues such as unpaid rent, deposit returns, maintenance failures, and early termination. All cases must start at RDSC before any court escalation.
When you should file at RDSC
File when the other party ignores written requests for 15 days or more. Common triggers include a landlord refusing to return a security deposit within 30 days after move-out or a tenant falling behind on rent by two months. RERA-registered contracts give you stronger standing, so confirm your tenancy contract is registered before you begin.
Step-by-step filing process
Start online through the Dubai Courts portal or visit an RDSC service centre with Emirates ID. Create an account, select Rental Dispute, and upload your tenancy contract, Ejari certificate, and proof of payment. Pay the filing fee of AED 250 for claims under AED 100,000 or 5 percent of the claim amount for larger cases. The system issues a case number within 24 hours.
RDSC schedules a first hearing within 10 to 15 working days. Both parties receive SMS and email notices. If the landlord does not attend, the centre can issue a default ruling in your favour after one postponement.
Documents and evidence required
- Valid Emirates ID or passport copy
- Tenancy contract and Ejari certificate
- Bank statements or transfer receipts showing rent payments
- WhatsApp messages, emails, and maintenance requests
- Move-in and move-out inspection reports with photos
- Any police reports if property damage is involved
Bring originals to the hearing. The conciliator reviews documents on the spot and may request additional evidence within five days.
Timeline and costs after filing
Most cases settle at the first or second conciliation session. If no agreement is reached, the case moves to a judicial panel that issues a final ruling within 30 to 45 days. Enforcement of a ruling takes another two to four weeks through Dubai Courts Execution Department. Total direct costs rarely exceed AED 2,000 when you include filing, expert reports, and translation fees.
Common outcomes and next steps
Tenants usually recover deposits or receive compensation for repairs. Landlords often obtain eviction orders or payment plans for arrears. Once the ruling is issued, you can request enforcement at the Execution Court. If either party disagrees, an appeal must be filed within 15 days at the Court of Appeal.
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Frequently asked questions
How long does an RDSC case take in 2026?▾
Most rental disputes settle in 30 to 45 days from filing if both parties attend hearings.
What is the RDSC filing fee for small claims?▾
AED 250 flat fee applies to claims under AED 100,000; larger claims cost 5 percent of the amount.
Can I file online without visiting RDSC?▾
Yes, the Dubai Courts portal accepts full online submissions with digital document uploads.
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