Can my Dubai landlord enter the property without my permission?

No — not in normal circumstances. The lease grants the tenant exclusive occupancy. The landlord's rights to enter are limited to:

• Inspection by appointment. Reasonable advance notice (typically 24–48 hours), at a reasonable time, with the tenant's consent. The contract should specify the inspection mechanism.
• Genuine emergency. A burst pipe, fire risk, or imminent damage threatening life or property may justify entry without prior notice — but only to the extent necessary to address the emergency.
• Approved repairs. If the lease assigns major repairs to the landlord, access is permitted at agreed times.

What the landlord cannot do:

• Enter while the tenant is away without permission.
• Use a duplicate key without prior, specific consent.
• Show the property to prospective tenants without arrangement.
• Change the locks while the tenant is in valid occupancy.

If the landlord enters without permission, the tenant's remedies include filing a case at the Rental Disputes Centre (RDC) for breach of contract and trespass, claiming damages, and — in serious cases — a police report.

If there is evidence of repeated unauthorised entry, capture timestamps via doorbell camera footage or independent witnesses and consult a UAE-licensed lawyer before escalating.