Abu Dhabi Freezes Rents: Landlords Can No Longer Increase Your Rent
If your tenancy is up for renewal and you live, work, or run a business in Abu Dhabi — your rent stays exactly where it is. Your landlord cannot add a single dirham to what you paid last year. That is the law as of June 2, 2026.
The Abu Dhabi Real Estate Centre (ADREC), the body that oversees property in the emirate, made the announcement on Tuesday via a post on X. Short, direct and immediate: "Your rent stays the same."
This decision comes as a significant relief to tenants who have been facing rising rental costs. According to Mario Volpi, senior manager at Eva Real Estate, "It's great news for tenants. Rents had been climbing far past the 5% cap anyway."
The freeze on rents is expected to stabilize the real estate market and provide financial stability to residents. ADREC has been monitoring the rental market closely and has taken this step to ensure that tenants are not burdened by excessive rent hikes.
The freeze applies to all types of residential and commercial properties in Abu Dhabi, including apartments, villas, and commercial spaces. Landlords are strictly prohibited from increasing rents, and any violation of this rule will be subject to legal action.
This move by ADREC is part of a broader effort to make Abu Dhabi a more affordable and attractive place to live and work. The government has been implementing various measures to support the real estate sector and ensure that it remains sustainable and inclusive.
For tenants, this means that they can plan their finances with greater certainty and avoid the stress of unexpected rent increases. It also provides an opportunity for those considering moving to Abu Dhabi to do so without the fear of high rental costs.
The freeze is expected to last for a specified period, and ADREC will continue to monitor the market to determine the next steps. Tenants are advised to stay informed and to report any unauthorized rent increases to the relevant authorities.
In summary, the rent freeze in Abu Dhabi is a significant step towards ensuring affordable living and working conditions for all residents. It is a welcome move that will provide much-needed relief to tenants and contribute to the overall stability of the real estate market.
