Renting · DIFC

RERA Rent Index & Increases in DIFC

How the RERA rental index caps increases in DIFC, with the current bands.

Price per sqft

AED 2,900 per sqft

1-bed rent

AED 145,000/yr

Gross yield

6–7%

Short-let occupancy

79%

How the cap works

If your current DIFC rent is 11–20% below market, the landlord may raise it 5%; 21–30% below allows 10%; 31–40% allows 15%; more than 40% below allows 20%. Within 10% of market, no increase is permitted.

Checking your position

The Dubai REST app's rental index gives the official market figure for your building. With one-beds in DIFC around AED 145,000, that is the number your increase is measured against.

DIFC at a glance

DIFC is the financial free zone where corporate tenants and business travellers pay a premium. Buying sits at AED 2,900 per sqft — roughly AED 2,262,000 for a standard one-bedroom — while long-term tenants pay about AED 145,000 a year. Hosted as a licensed holiday home, the same unit averages AED 834 a night at 79% occupancy, around AED 240,484 gross. Owners on our managed programme average AED 331,868 — a 38% uplift.

Frequently asked questions

Can my landlord evict me to raise rent?

Only on specific legal grounds — sale, personal use or major renovation — with 12 months' notarised notice.

What notice is required for an increase?

90 days before the renewal date, in writing.