- Anti-Discrimination and Equal Housing Laws
- Enforcement of Equal Housing Rights
- Reporting Discrimination
- FAQs
People from all across the world are inhabitant in Dubai making it a cultural mosaic. To safeguard the rights of Dubai’s varied population, the government has taken multiple measures. In fact, the emirate has anti-discrimination and equal housing laws, ensuring the provision of equal opportunities for all. The core aim of the law is to protect citizens against discrimination and exclude any sort of biases on the basis of colour, caste, culture or religion.
Let’s take a closer look at the housing rights in Dubai and elaborate on how it helps residents of Dubai.
Anti-Discrimination and Equal Housing Laws in Dubai
Initially, the Federal Decree Law No (2) of 2015 governs the issues related to anti-discrimination. As per the law, discrimination in any expression and on any platform is strictly prohibited. Real estate agents and managers will also be held accountable if they commit or are aware of the offence.
Recently, the 2015 law was replaced by the 2023 discrimination law which broadened the definition of discrimination. Now that you are aware of the law, let’s take a look at how it affects the real estate market.
Finalising Rent
Landlords are obligated to set rent as per the market regulations. That said, the increase in rent should also be in accordance with the limit mentioned by RERA Dubai.
Showing Property
When selling or renting property, landlords or agents should not discriminate against the buyers or tenants. People from all castes, cultures and religions have the right to visit and make an offer for the property.
Fair Treatment of Heirs
In case, the property is transferred to a new legal heir of the property, the lease contract shall continue. The tenants are also instructed to avoid any discriminatory behaviour with the new heir of the property.
Ensuring Equal Housing Rights in Dubai
Here is how to abide by the Fair Housing Act in Dubai as a landlord to avoid legal hassle.
Considering Lease Agreements
As a landlord, it is necessary to abide by the lease agreement and the clauses added to it. In case of a change in property ownership, the tenant in any way should not be discriminated against. That said, change in property owners does not affect lease conditions that were agreed by the previous owner.
Eviction Regulations
Landlords are responsible for adhering to the eviction rules and regulations in the emirate. Serve the tenancy eviction notice with a minimum time buffer mentioned in the law.
In case of renovation, reconstruction or demolition of property, the tenant has the right to exercise first refusal to return.
Dispute Resolution
Disputes between landlords and tenants can happen, but caste, colour, race or religion should not be the basis of this conflict. Moreover, it is recommended to opt for a legal dispute resolution process and adhere to the verdict.
How to Report Discrimination?
If the landlord or tenant faces any discriminatory behaviour from another party, it is suggested to report the issue. The first step is to communicate with the other party elaborating and discussing the issue with them. If the issue is still unresolved, file a rental dispute. Here is the complete process of filing a rental dispute in Dubai that can help you in the process.
FAQs
What are the penalties for violating anti-discrimination laws in the UAE?
Violating anti-discrimination laws can lead to prison time of at least 1 year or a fine of at least AED 500,000.
On which basis discrimination is prohibited in Dubai?
Discrimination is prohibited on the basis of sex, race, culture, religion, caste, social status, disability and other biases.
Is hate speech allowed in Dubai?
No, any kind of hatred and extremism in any form is strictly prohibited in Dubai.
This was all about anti-discriminatory laws and equal housing rights in Dubai. The latest amendment in the law aids in making the property transaction process more transparent and convenient. This significantly contributes to the growth of Dubai’s real estate market. If you are also interested in availing of these trends, browse through these properties for sale in Dubai and find an ideal unit for investment.
Besides discrimination, there are different types of rental disputes in Dubai that you must be aware of.
Stay tuned to dubizzle’s property blog for more information on rental dispute resolution.
