How to Write a Non-Renewal Notice to Your Landlord

Overview

UAE Rental Notice Requirements 

Steps to Write a Notice 

Non-Renewal Notice Template

FAQs

Planning to move out when your tenancy ends? A non-renewal notice formally informs your landlord that you do not wish to extend the lease. Here’s what to include, when to send it and a ready-to-use template for tenants in the UAE. 

What Is a Non-Renewal Notice?

A non-renewal notice is a written communication from a tenant informing the landlord that they do not intend to renew their tenancy contract after it expires. It is different from an early termination notice. A tenancy non-renewal notice to the landlord applies when you plan to stay until the agreed expiry date and then vacate the property. 

Understanding UAE Rental Notice Requirements

Notice requirements for non-renewing a tenancy vary across the UAE.

Checking the applicable requirements and the terms of your tenancy contract can help reduce the risk of disputes over the end of the tenancy. 

Dubai

Under Article 14 of Dubai Law No. 26 of 2007, as amended by Law No. 33 of 2008, a tenant who intends not to renew the tenancy or amend its terms must notify the other party at least 90 days before the contract expires, unless otherwise agreed in the tenancy contract.

Abu Dhabi

Under Abu Dhabi Law No. 20 of 2006 (and its amendments), residential tenancy contracts generally require written notice two months before expiry if either party does not intend to renew. Commercial and industrial leases generally require a 3-month notice period. Separate rules may apply to properties within Abu Dhabi Global Market jurisdiction.

Sharjah

Tenancy contracts in Sharjah are subject to local regulations, including Sharjah Law No. 5 of 2024 on property leasing. Tenants should check their registered tenancy contract and confirm the applicable non-renewal requirements with the relevant authority before sending a notice.

Ajman

Governed by Ajman Emiri Decree No. 2 of 2017, notice requirements for non-renewal in Ajman can depend on the applicable local regulations and the terms of the tenancy contract. Tenants should review their attested agreement and confirm the current requirements with the relevant authority.

Ras Al Khaimah

In Ras Al Khaimah, the current RAK Municipality lease contract requires either party that does not wish to renew the tenancy to notify the other party in writing at least two months before the contract expires. Tenants should also check their individual tenancy contract for any additional terms.

Umm Al Quwain

Tenancy-contract requirements in Umm Al Quwain generally provide for three months’ notice for renewal or non-renewal. Tenants should check their registered tenancy contract and the latest requirements of the relevant authority before sending the notice.

Fujairah

Tenants should review their tenancy contract for the applicable non-renewal notice period and follow the required method of notification. Where necessary, confirm the latest requirements with the relevant local authority.

Steps to Write a Non-Renewal Notice to Your Landlord

A non-renewal notice does not need to be complicated. The main objective is to communicate your decision clearly.

As per Liam Hole, the Director of Sales at Pangea Properties:

“Tenants should give written notice that clearly states their intention not to renew, the property address, and their planned move-out date. Check the lease first, as it will usually specify the required notice period—often 60 to 90 days. Email is a practical option, but follow any notice method required by the lease and keep proof that the notice was sent and received. Before moving out, settle outstanding payments, clean the property, document its condition with photos, return all keys and access devices, and confirm the handover arrangements with the landlord.”

Step 1: Check Your Tenancy Contract 

Review the contract for the required notice period and any specified method of communication, such as email, registered mail or written delivery.

Step 2: Add the Date

Include the date the notice is issued. Keep separate proof of delivery or receipt to demonstrate that you sent the notice within the required period.

Step 3: Address the Landlord 

Add the landlord’s full name. If a property management company manages the property, check your contract to see whether the notice should also be sent to the company. 

Step 4: Mention Property Details

Make sure your letter clearly states the apartment or villa number, the building or community name and the property address. You can also mention the tenancy or Ejari number where needed.

Step 5: State Your Intent Clearly 

Clearly state that you do not intend to renew the tenancy contract after the current lease expires. Add the specific date when your lease will expire. This will help the landlord to plan the actions accordingly and maintain a good tenant-landlord relationship.

Step 6: Provide a Reason (Optional) 

You do not generally need to explain why you are not renewing your tenancy. If you choose to include a reason, keep it brief and professional.

Step 7: Ask About the Move-Out Process

Ask the landlord or property manager to confirm the arrangements for:

Property inspection

Key handover

Utility bill clearance

Security deposit refund

Other handover requirements

Step 8: Add Your Contact Details

Include your phone number, full name, email address and other contact details where the landlord can contact you after you move.

Step 9: Sign and Send the Notice 

Once you double-check that all the details are correct, sign the notice and send it using the method specified in your tenancy contract. Keep a copy of the notice and proof that it was sent or received.

Non-Renewal Notice Template for Tenants in the UAE

You can use the following format as a starting point:

Subject: Tenancy Contract Non-Renewal Notice

Date: [DD/MM/YYYY]

To: [Landlord’s Full Name / Property Management Company] 

Tenancy Contract Number: [Insert Contract Number]

Property Address: [Unit Number, Building Name, Community, Emirate] 

Dear [Landlord Name],

I am writing to formally notify you that I do not intend to renew the tenancy contract for [Unit Number, Building Name, Area, City], which expires on [End Date of Contract] and I intend to vacate the property by this date. Before the handover, I will settle or close the relevant utility accounts and provide any required final bills or clearance documents.

Please let me know the requirements for the move-out process, including final inspection and key handover. I would also appreciate confirmation of the process for returning my security deposit and settling any outstanding amounts, subject to the tenancy contract.

Thank you for your cooperation throughout my tenancy.

Sincerely,

[Your Full Name]

[Your Contact Number]

[Your Email Address]

FAQs About Tenancy Non-Renewal Notices in the UAE

Do I need to give a reason for not renewing a tenancy contract?

Tenants do not usually need to provide a reason for choosing not to renew their tenancy. However, they should follow the notice period and communication requirements stated in their tenancy contract.

Is an email notice of not renewing the contract legally valid?

An email can be used to communicate a tenant’s intention not to renew a tenancy, provided it complies with the terms of the tenancy contract and applicable requirements.

What happens if I don’t send a non-renewal notice?

The consequences depend on the tenancy contract and applicable regulations. In Dubai, tenants who do not wish to renew should notify the landlord at least 90 days before the tenancy expires. If the tenant continues to occupy the property after expiry without the landlord’s objection, the tenancy may be renewed under the conditions set out in Dubai’s tenancy law.

Knowing how to write a lease non-renewal letter to a landlord can make the move-out process clearer. Before sending the notice, check the required notice period and the terms of your tenancy contract. 

Following the correct process can help ensure that your tenancy ends with the necessary documentation in place and both parties are clear about the next steps. 

If you are looking for a new home, explore these available properties for rent in the UAE and compare options based on your preferred location, property type and budget. 

For more information on renting and moving, stay tuned to MyBayut.

Disclaimer: Rental requirements may vary by emirate, property jurisdiction and tenancy contract. Tenants should verify the latest requirements with the relevant authority and review their tenancy agreement before sending a non-renewal notice.