Buying or renting property in Abu Dhabi can be one of the most rewarding investments, whether you are a UAE resident, expatriate, or international investor. However, navigating property ownership and tenancy laws in Abu Dhabi requires a clear understanding of your legal rights and obligations under UAE law.

In this guide, our team at Al Menhali Advocates & Legal Consultancy, trusted Abu Dhabi advocates & legal consultants, explains the essentials of real estate law to help property owners, buyers, landlords, and tenants avoid legal disputes.

Property Ownership in Abu Dhabi – What the Law Says

Property ownership in Abu Dhabi is governed by Law No. 3 of 2015 regulating real estate. Ownership rights differ for UAE nationals and expatriates:

Types of Property Ownership

• Freehold – Full ownership of land and property
  
  
• Usufruct – Long-term lease (up to 99 years) allowing use but not modification
  
  
• Musataha – Right to build or develop on land (up to 50 years)
  
  

A real estate lawyer in Abu Dhabi can help you review purchase contracts, conduct due diligence, and avoid fraud or hidden liabilities.

Tenancy Laws in Abu Dhabi – Tenant & Landlord Responsibilities

Rental agreements in Abu Dhabi are regulated by Law No. 20 of 2006 and Tenancy Law No. 4 of 2010. All rental contracts must be registered through the Tawtheeq system.

Key Rental Rules You Should Know

• Rent increases follow government caps and notice rules.
  
  
• Eviction is only allowed under legal grounds like non-payment, property damage, or demolition by owner.
  
  
• Security deposits must be refunded unless deductions are legally justified.
  
  
• Maintenance responsibilities must be clearly defined in the tenancy contract.
  
  

If disputes arise, they must be submitted to the Abu Dhabi Rent Disputes Settlement Committee before court proceedings.

Common Real Estate Legal Issues

Our real estate lawyers in Abu Dhabi handle dispute resolution, contract review, property litigation, and RERA compliance.

Can Real Estate Disputes Become Criminal Cases?

Yes—some property disputes involve criminal violations such as:

• Forged title deeds
  
  
• Cheque bounce cases related to property payments
  
  
• Fraudulent property sales
  
  
• Misappropriation of funds by brokers
  
  

In such cases, our criminal prosecution lawyer can represent clients before UAE public prosecutors and criminal courts.

Why Choose Al Menhali Advocates for Property Legal Matters?

• Experienced Abu Dhabi advocates & legal consultants
  
  
• Multilingual legal team – Arabic & English
  
  
• Expertise in property ownership, rental disputes, and litigation
  
  
• Strong negotiation and arbitration capabilities
  
  
• Trusted by investors, corporate clients, and UAE residents
  
  

📞 Need Legal Support for a Property Matter?

Whether you’re facing a tenancy dispute, buying property, or resolving ownership conflicts, get expert guidance from our legal team.

Contact Al Menhali Advocates & Legal Consultancy Today
  Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
  Call Us: +971504911142

 Email:almenhali.lawyer@gmail.com
  Visit: www.almenhaliadvocates.com

Protect your property—protect your rights.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can expatriates own property in Abu Dhabi?
   Yes, expats can own freehold or leasehold property in designated investment zones.
2. How do I legally evict a tenant in Abu Dhabi?
   Eviction requires legal grounds and must be approved by the Rent Disputes Committee.
3. What if my landlord refuses to return my security deposit?
   You can file a case with the Tenancy Disputes Committee with evidence.
4. Do I need a real estate lawyer to buy property in Abu Dhabi?
   It is strongly recommended to prevent contract fraud and legal risks.
5. Can property disputes become criminal cases?
   Yes—fraud or bounced cheques require a criminal prosecution lawyer.