The UAE’s booming real estate sector attracts thousands of investors and tenants, but with it comes the risk of disputes between buyers, sellers, landlords, and tenants. Issues such as delayed handovers, breach of contract, illegal rent increases, or misrepresentation of property are common. The UAE has put in place strong legal mechanisms to resolve such conflicts fairly, mainly through the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA) and the UAE courts.
Resolving Disputes Through RERA
In Dubai, RERA plays a key role in regulating the property sector. It provides specialized avenues for resolving real estate issues quickly and efficiently.
- Rental Disputes Settlement Center (RDSC)
For disputes between landlords and tenants, the case is filed with the RDSC, which operates under RERA. It handles matters like rental increases, eviction, or deposit refunds. - Developer Disputes
Buyers facing problems like delayed handovers, non-compliance with contractual terms, or quality issues can approach RERA for resolution before taking the matter to court. - Registration of Complaints
RERA ensures that contracts are registered and verified, preventing fraud and ensuring both parties are bound by law.
RERA’s processes are relatively quicker and cost-effective compared to lengthy court proceedings, making it a preferred first step in many disputes.
Taking Real Estate Disputes to UAE Courts
If disputes cannot be resolved through RERA or involve complex legal issues, the matter may proceed to UAE courts.
- Civil Courts: Handle contractual disputes between buyers, sellers, and developers.
- Specialized Committees: Some emirates have dedicated committees for property-related matters.
- Execution of Judgments: Court rulings are binding and enforceable, ensuring resolution and compensation where applicable.
Court proceedings may take longer than RERA mediation, but they provide a final and enforceable solution.
People also read: What Tenants Should Know About Rental Contracts Under UAE Law
How Adv. Sanafer Arakkal of Concept Advocates Helps
Navigating property disputes requires expert legal guidance. Adv. Sanafer Arakkal, founder of Concept Advocates, has extensive experience in handling real estate disputes across RERA and UAE courts.
- Case Evaluation: He assesses the dispute and advises whether to proceed through RERA or court.
- Mediation Support: Guides clients through RERA processes, ensuring proper documentation and representation.
- Litigation Expertise: Represents clients in UAE courts to resolve complex contractual or ownership disputes.
- Investor Protection: Helps investors recover funds or enforce contracts against developers.
- Tenant & Landlord Representation: Provides tailored legal strategies for rental conflicts.
Final Thoughts
Real estate disputes in the UAE can be stressful, but the law provides clear remedies through RERA and the UAE courts. Tenants, landlords, buyers, and investors should act promptly and seek professional legal advice to protect their rights.
With the support of Adv. Sanafer Arakkal and Concept Advocates, clients can navigate these disputes confidently and achieve fair resolutions while safeguarding their investments.
