Who is responsible for maintenance in a tenancy contract in Dubai?

What can I do if my landlord refuses to repair the air-conditioning system in my unit?

Most lease agreements set out the maintenance obligations of the tenant, mainly minor maintenance associated with day-to-day usage of the contents of the unit, which would include replacing any items which are broken by the tenant. The landlord is, however, responsible for the major maintenance items, which include the air conditioning, plumbing and sanitary installation, the electrical system, major appliances (if furnished) and the overall structure of the unit.

The tenant would be able to file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Centre, (except if the rental unit is situated in one of the free zones) for an order to compel the landlord to effect the repairs (a petition order).

Tenants may also attend to the repairs themselves and claim the amount as damages from the landlord. The tenant may also have the right to terminate the rental contract under certain circumstances. In any of these courses of action, it is important for the tenant to comply with the terms of the tenancy contract in respect of any notice, which is required to be given to the landlord before any action is taken. There are court fees for any claim for compensation or for cancellation of the tenancy contract