So, They Want to Parade Strangers Through Your Dubai Crib? Can You Slam the Door in Their Face?
Living in Dubai is pretty darn swanky, but let's be honest, sometimes you just want to kick back in your PJs and impersonate a sloth without an audience. But what happens when your landlord announces a parade of potential new tenants or buyers traipsing through your rented oasis? Can you barricade the door with furniture and unleash your inner hermit crab, or are you obligated to play gracious host?
Not So Fast, Speedy Gonzales!
While you might dream of a life free from interruptions (especially the kind that involve strangers poking their noses into your spice rack), the law in Dubai leans slightly more towards the landlord in this situation. There's no right to outright refuse viewings, but there are some golden rules that make sure things don't get too Charlie Chaplin-esque in your apartment.
Know Your Rights (and Get Comfortable Saying No...Kinda)
Here's where things get interesting:
- The Notice is the Boss: Your landlord needs to give you a heads-up before unleashing the viewing squad. We're talking reasonable notice, typically around 24 hours. This isn't the time for a surprise inspection disguised as a viewing!
- Timing is Everything: You don't have to contort yourself into a pretzel to accommodate viewings. Landlords should be flexible and schedule visits during reasonable hours. Early mornings before you've had your coffee? Probably not happening.
- Don't Be a Scheduling Doormat: The frequency of viewings should be, well, frequent-ish, not constant. If your place starts to resemble Grand Central Station, you have the right to politely push back.
- Your Space, Your Rules (to a Point): You can request to be present during viewings, or have the landlord or agent handle it. This is your chance to unleash your inner interior design guru and subtly point out all the amazing features of your place (like that strategically placed popcorn machine).
But Wait, There's More!
While you can't exactly barricade the door, there are some additional things to keep in mind:
- Check Your Lease: Sometimes, the lease agreement might have specific clauses about viewings. Give it a once-over to make sure you're not accidentally breaking any rules.
- Communication is Key: If something about the viewings is bugging you, talk to your landlord! Maybe there's a better time for everyone, or perhaps you can come up with a viewing system that works for both of you.
How To FAQs:
How to politely decline a viewing that's on short notice?
Be honest! Explain that the notice was too short and offer some alternative times that work for you.
How to deal with excessively frequent viewings?
Talk to your landlord and explain that the constant stream of visitors is disruptive. Suggest a reasonable schedule for viewings.
How to ensure your privacy during viewings?
You can request to be present or have the landlord handle it. Tidy up a bit beforehand, but there's no need to go full-on Marie Kondo.
How to avoid damage during viewings?
Let your landlord know about any valuables and ask them to take precautions to avoid any mishaps.
How to find out more about tenant rights in Dubai?
The Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) is a great resource. You can find information on their website.
💡 This page may contain affiliate links — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
