Dubai Land Department unveils 'Smart Rental Index 2025' for property market

Photo: Dubai Government Media Office

The Dubai Land Department (DLD) has introduced the Smart Rental Index 2025, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at transforming Dubai’s real estate sector. This new index is a major step forward in regulating and developing the property market. By using advanced technology and real estate expertise, the Smart Rental Index seeks to deliver top-notch services tailored to the needs of all stakeholders, including landlords, tenants, and property managers. Its primary goal is to enhance transparency and fairness in determining rental values, while also aligning with the objectives of Dubai’s Digital Strategy and the Dubai Real Estate Sector Strategy 2033.

The announcement was made during a press conference at DLD’s headquarters. Strategic partners, government representatives, real estate companies, and senior officials attended the event.

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What Makes the Smart Rental Index Unique
The Smart Rental Index uses a building classification system that evaluates properties based on their technical features and services. Each building is rated by considering factors such as:

Structural quality and technical details
Maintenance and finish standards, Location and surrounding value, Services like cleanliness, parking, and maintenance. This system ensures that rental values are accurate and fair, reflecting the true quality and features of each property.

Insights from the Launch Event
During the event, Majid Al Marri, CEO of the Real Estate Registration Sector at DLD, called this new index a game-changer for the real estate sector. He said, “This index uses artificial intelligence and advanced building classification methods to provide accurate rental valuations. It improves transparency and strengthens Dubai’s position as a global investment destination.”

Al Marri also mentioned that over 900,000 rental contracts were registered in 2024, an 8% growth compared to 2023. This shows growing trust in Dubai’s real estate market. The Smart Rental Index helps both landlords and tenants make informed decisions while promoting long-term market sustainability.

How the Rental Value is Calculated
The index follows a clear and standard process to calculate rental values, making it fair for everyone. It considers real estate market conditions and uses flexible rules that adapt to changes in the market. This ensures the expectations of landlords and tenants are met, creating a balanced environment.

The system also aligns with Decree No. (34) of 2013, which regulates rental increases. For instance:

No increase is allowed if the current rent is less than 10% below the market average. Rental increases can go up to 20% if rents exceed the market average by 40% or more. This approach ensures fairness and stability for both landlords and tenants.

Additional Features and Future Plans
DLD has introduced other smart tools to make the real estate process smoother, such as:

Interactive rental contracts via the Dubai REST app, allowing users to register, renew, or cancel contracts easily. Property management contracts, enabling direct registration and updates through the app. A Model Tenant Classification system, which assesses tenants’ credit ratings and provides reports through the Ejari system. The Smart Rental Index is constantly evolving. In the future, DLD plans to expand it to include commercial and industrial properties. It will also introduce new services like training programs, better customer support, and more communication options for stakeholders.

Commitment to Transparency

The Smart Rental Index covers all residential areas in Dubai, including free zones and special development zones. This ensures standard pricing and evaluation methods across the emirate. It provides landlords with a reliable tool to set rental values and tenants with protection from unfair rent hikes.

DLD’s efforts aim to build trust, promote transparency, and support the long-term growth of Dubai’s real estate market. For more information, stakeholders are encouraged to reach out to DLD’s official channels, where a dedicated team is ready to assist.