Landlords and tenants in Ras Al Khaimah can now expect a clearer path to navigate their rental agreements, with the recent issuance of a new law by His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, the Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah. This legislation, the third and final addition to the emirate's legal framework, aims to establish a comprehensive set of regulations governing the rights and responsibilities of both parties involved in residential and commercial tenancies.
Previously, Ras Al Khaimah relied on the provisions outlined in the UAE Civil Transactions Law No. 5 of 1985 for tenancy disputes. While this federal law provided a foundation, it lacked the specificity required to address the unique dynamics of the emirate's property market. The new law intends to bridge this gap by introducing localized regulations tailored to Ras Al Khaimah's specific needs.
A key aspect of the new law is the emphasis on establishing clear and detailed tenancy contracts. The legislation is expected to mandate the inclusion of crucial elements in these contracts, such as the purpose of the lease, a comprehensive description of the property, the rental amount and payment schedule, the duration of the tenancy agreement, and the process for lease renewals or terminations. This standardization will minimize ambiguity and potential disagreements between landlords and tenants.
The new law also delves into the responsibilities of both parties. Landlords will be expected to maintain the property in a habitable condition, addressing any necessary repairs in a timely manner. Additionally, limitations on rent increases are anticipated to be incorporated, ensuring a degree of predictability for tenants when it comes to their rental costs. Tenants, on the other hand, will have a responsibility to uphold the terms of the contract, including timely rent payments and proper use of the property.
The introduction of this new law is expected to foster a more balanced and transparent rental market in Ras Al Khaimah. Landlords will benefit from a clearer framework for managing their properties, while tenants can look forward to increased protections and a more streamlined process for resolving any disputes that may arise.
The specific details of the new law, including the extent of rent increase regulations and the dispute resolution mechanisms, are still awaited. However, the enactment of this legislation signifies a significant step towards establishing a well-defined and predictable rental environment in Ras Al Khaimah.