Can I sublet a property for short-term rentals in Dubai?

In Dubai, subletting a property for short-term rentals is allowed, but there are specific legal requirements that must be met.

1. Landlord's Written Consent: According to Dubai’s Law No. 26 of 2007, tenants are not allowed to sublet their rental property without the written consent of the landlord. This must be explicitly mentioned in the rental agreement, or the landlord's approval must be obtained separately. Without this approval, both the tenant and the subtenant are at risk of eviction, and the tenant may face legal consequences, including compensating the subtenant for losses​.
   
   

2. Sublease Agreement: If the landlord grants permission, a formal sublease agreement should be drawn up. This agreement should clearly define the terms, such as the rent, duration, and responsibilities of both the tenant and the subtenant. It’s also essential that the sublease aligns with the original rental contract's terms.
   
   

3. Regulatory Compliance: If you plan to operate the sublet as a short-term rental (e.g., through Airbnb), the property must be registered with the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), and you’ll need to obtain a short-term rental permit. This includes ensuring the property complies with health and safety regulations, paying the Tourism Dirham Fee, and following all DET guidelines​.
   
   

4. Penalties for Non-Compliance: Subletting without the landlord's consent can lead to eviction of both the tenant and the subtenant. The landlord can initiate legal proceedings, and the tenant might also be responsible for damages to the subtenant​.

Before proceeding, make sure to thoroughly review your tenancy agreement, discuss the subletting option with your landlord, and secure all necessary approvals to ensure compliance with Dubai's laws.