Our landlord has given us an eviction notice as he wants to convert the whole building into hotel apartments. He has given more than one year's notice. However, when I looked at the rental law, conversion into hotel apartments didn't seem to be one of the permissible reasons listed for evicting a tenant. Can you let me know whether the eviction is valid? ML, Dubai
I would expect this would come under the heading of "if premises require renovation or comprehensive maintenance which cannot be executed while tenant is occupying premises" which is Article 25, 2b of Dubai rental law. That said, this clause explains that this reason is valid "provided that a technical report attested by Dubai Municipality is submitted to this effect". You can request a copy of the report, or at least formal confirmation that it has been accepted. And I assume that the eviction notice has been issued to all tenants in the proper format, that is, delivered by registered post or public notary.
Keren Bobker is an independent financial adviser with Holborn Assets in Dubai, with over 20 years of experience. Contact her at keren@holbornassets.com.
The advice provided in our columns does not constitute legal advice and is provided for information only. Readers are encouraged to seek appropriate independent legal advice.
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