UAE: Dh10 million allocated to help families defaulting on rents in Dubai

Dubai has launched a new initiative called 'Sitr', and within it has allocated Dh10 million to support families burdened by rental obligations.

Launched by the Rental Disputes Center (RDC) and the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Charitable Establishment, the new initiative is part of the UAE leadership directive to mark 2026 as the Year of the Family to safeguard family stability and strengthen the fabric of society across the emirate.

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The initiative is expected to generate a far-reaching social impact and help the release of 111 defaulting tenants, settlement of 187 enforcement cases, and support for 232 eligible families.

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Spanning the entirety of 2026, the 'Sitr' initiative is aimed at releasing individuals detained in rental-related cases, resolving financial liabilities, and help Rental Dispute Centre close the maximum possible number of enforcement files.

Following a four-year rally, the rents in Dubai and the UAE have risen significantly, becoming a major challenge for residents. Some studies suggest that rent accounts for a large chunk of the expenses of people in the country, and initiatives such as 'Sitr' will help people, especially families, to overcome this challenge.

“Our role extends beyond the implementation of judicial procedures; it includes standing alongside families facing financial hardship. Through this initiative, we further solidify the values of compassion and social responsibility within our Emirati community,” said Judge Abdulqader Mousa Mohammed, chairman of the Rental Disputes Center, Dubai.

He stressed that the RDC works closely with relevant stakeholders to ensure assistance reaches those most deserving, based on transparent and equitable criteria, including social circumstances, outstanding liabilities, income sources, previous payment compliance, and verified documentation, thereby ensuring that support is delivered with integrity and fairness.

“This step stems from our firm belief in empowering humanitarian efforts and fulfilling our social responsibility to stand by families in need, guided by noble values that promote family stability, societal cohesion that symbolizes the UAE’s distinguished humanitarian identity,” said Saif Omar Aldelail, member of the board of trustees of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Charitable Establishment.

Waheed Abbas

waheedabbas@khaleejtimes.com

Waheed Abbas is Assistant Editor, covering real estate, aviation and other business stories that directly affect the lives of UAE consumers. He frequently reports human interest stories, too.