A view of the Dubai skyline. ARCHIVE

The Dubai Land Department (DLD) is set to launch a groundbreaking Smart Rental Index on January 2, according to DLD in an email to Expat Media. The new index, described as a “pioneering initiative,” will use advanced technologies and accurate data to provide landlords, tenants, and investors with reliable rental benchmarks. The initiative aims to enhance transparency and reduce disputes in the emirate's real estate sector. Currently, the Dubai rental index is updated quarterly. However, the DLD’s new system will offer more frequent updates, reflecting real-time market trends. The rental index will also clarify permissible rent increases, ensuring tenants are not subjected to arbitrary hikes. For instance, properties that are 11 percent to 20 percent below market value will allow a 5 percent increase, while properties over 40 percent below market value can see a maximum 20 percent hike. This development follows significant rent increases across Dubai over the past two years, sparking calls for better regulation. ICA/Expat Media
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