Rent Increases Suspended in Abu Dhabi Until Further Notice
The freeze pauses the allowance of up to 5% annual rent increases and remains in force until further notice. Tawtheeq lease registration rules are unchanged.
A temporary freeze on rent increases has come into effect across Abu Dhabi, requiring lease renewals to be issued at the same approved rental value as existing contracts. Confirmed by the Abu Dhabi Real Estate Centre on June 2nd, 2026, the measure applies to residential, commercial and industrial properties and remains in force until further notice.
Under the decision, the approved rental value is fixed at the amount stated in the most recent tenancy contract. The rule applies not only to contract renewals but also to new tenancy agreements for units that were previously rented, meaning landlords cannot raise rents when a property changes tenants.
The suspension temporarily overrides existing regulations that allow landlords to increase rents by up to 5% annually, provided tenants receive at least two months' notice before renewal.
While the freeze is in place, renewal contracts must match the current approved rental value, with no increases permitted. According to the Abu Dhabi Real Estate Centre, the measure will remain under review as market conditions continue to be monitored.
Lease registration requirements remain unchanged. All residential, commercial and industrial tenancy contracts must continue to be registered through the Tawtheeq system, which serves as the primary reference document in disputes relating to rent, maintenance, evictions and security deposits.
