Sharjah Rent Increase Rules: What Tenants and Landlords Need to Know in 2025

Sharjah, the cultural capital of the UAE, has long been an attractive place for both residents and investors. However, as the real estate market continues to evolve, understanding the rules around rent increases is crucial for tenants and landlords alike. Whether you’re a tenant looking to know your rights or a landlord planning to adjust rent, staying updated on Sharjah’s rent increase regulations is essential.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the Sharjah rent increase rules in 2025, ensuring both landlords and tenants have a clear understanding of their responsibilities and rights.

The Legal Framework: Sharjah Rent Increase Law

In Sharjah, rent increases are governed by the Sharjah Real Estate Regulatory Agency (SRERA), which oversees the real estate sector and aims to maintain fairness for all parties involved. The rent increase law is designed to protect tenants from excessive hikes while ensuring that landlords can adjust rents in line with market trends.

Here are the key aspects of the rent increase law:

1. Maximum Rent Increase Percentage

As of 2025, landlords are permitted to increase rents by a certain percentage, which is tied to the current market conditions and previous rent prices. However, the increase cannot exceed more than 20% of the existing rent, depending on the following conditions:

• Up to 10% increase: If the current rent is below 10% of the average market rent for similar properties in the area.
• Up to 15% increase: If the current rent is between 10% and 20% lower than the average market rent.
• Up to 20% increase: If the current rent is more than 20% lower than the average market rent.

These percentages are designed to prevent excessive increases while ensuring that landlords can adjust rents based on the current market demand.

2. Time Gap Between Rent Increases

Sharjah rent increase laws also specify the time intervals between rent hikes. Landlords cannot increase rent more than once per year. This regulation is in place to give tenants enough stability and to prevent landlords from imposing frequent and disruptive rent increases.

3. Rental Disputes and How to Resolve Them

In case of disputes over rent increases, tenants have the right to approach the Sharjah Rent Dispute Committee, which will mediate and offer a resolution based on the prevailing laws. It’s important for tenants and landlords to keep records of their rental agreements and any communication regarding rent increases to resolve any conflicts quickly.

4. Rent Increase Notification Period

The law stipulates that landlords must provide a formal notification to tenants at least 90 days in advance of a rent increase. This gives tenants sufficient time to prepare for the new rent or seek alternative accommodation if the increase is too steep.

5. Rent Increase Limits for Government Housing

Sharjah’s rent increase rules also apply to government-provided housing. However, the government may implement different guidelines for their properties, with lower rent increases or even caps depending on the location and availability of housing in the region.

6. Tenant Protections: Key Rights

Tenants in Sharjah have several protections that prevent landlords from imposing unfair or illegal rent increases:

• Fair Rent Assessment: Rent increases must be based on a fair assessment of comparable rental properties in the neighborhood.
• No Rent Increases Without Justification: Landlords are required to provide evidence of why a rent increase is necessary. Unsubstantiated rent hikes are not allowed.
• Security of Tenure: Tenants are protected from being displaced due to unjustified or excessive rent increases.

What Tenants and Landlords Should Do

For Tenants:

• Review Your Lease: Understand your current rental terms and check if the rent increase complies with the legal guidelines.
• Stay Informed: Keep an eye on local market conditions and rental trends in Sharjah to gauge whether your rent increase is justified.
• Communicate with Your Landlord: Open communication can help resolve any issues related to rent increases without resorting to legal measures.

For Landlords:

• Know the Limits: Always ensure that your rent increase complies with the SRERA guidelines and does not exceed the legal percentage.
• Provide Adequate Notice: Make sure to notify your tenant well in advance (at least 90 days) before increasing the rent.
• Be Transparent: Provide a clear explanation for any proposed rent increase to avoid disputes.

Conclusion: A Balanced Approach to Rent Increases

Sharjah’s rent increase regulations in 2025 are designed to maintain a balance between tenant protection and landlord flexibility. By adhering to these rules, both parties can enjoy a fair rental experience. Tenants should be aware of their rights and ensure that rent increases are reasonable, while landlords should understand the legal framework to avoid potential disputes.