Can I deduct repair costs from rent in Dubai if my landlord ignores me?

Yes, you can legally deduct repair costs from rent in Dubai — but only if you follow the correct process. You cannot simply deduct without documentation. Here's the correct procedure under UAE tenancy law: Step 1: Send a formal written notice to your landlord (WhatsApp with read receipt, email, or registered letter) specifying the fault, when it started, and requesting repair within a reasonable timeframe (7–14 days for a non-emergency, immediately for an emergency like a major leak). Step 2: If they don't respond within the specified timeframe, send a follow-up notice confirming you will arrange the repair yourself and deduct the cost from rent. Step 3: Get the repair done and keep all invoices. Step 4: Deduct the exact invoice amount from your next rent payment and provide the landlord with the invoice. Keep copies of everything. Important: For the deduction to be legally defensible, the repair must be the landlord's responsibility (structural issues, provided appliances), and you must have documented evidence of their failure to act. If the landlord disputes the deduction, the rental dispute centre will look at your paper trail.