Security Deposit Arabic Contract: Fine Print Matters

You’re moving out. You cleaned the apartment, returned the keys, and asked for your security deposit back. The landlord says no. They’re pointing to a clause in the Arabic part of your tenancy contract: a clause you’ve never read.

The clause apparently says something about professional cleaning, an inspection fee, or a deduction for maintenance. But you cannot verify any of this because you cannot read Arabic. You’re being told what your contract says by the person who benefits from your not reading it.

What deposit clauses typically say in Arabic

Standard Dubai tenancy contracts include a security deposit section. The English side usually says something vague like “security deposit refundable upon vacating per contract terms.” The Arabic side is often more specific:

• Professional cleaning. Many contracts require a professional deep clean before vacating. The Arabic text may specify that the tenant must provide a receipt from a licensed cleaning company. Without it, the landlord deducts cleaning costs from the deposit.
• Inspection window. Some contracts give the landlord 7-14 days after vacating to inspect the property. The Arabic text may state that the deposit is held until the inspection is complete.
• Outstanding utilities. The deposit may be held until the tenant provides DEWA clearance showing no unpaid bills at the address.
• Repair deductions. The Arabic clause typically distinguishes between “normal wear” (landlord’s responsibility) and “damage” (tenant’s cost). But the definition of each can vary from contract to contract.

Why the Arabic version matters here

If your landlord cites a contract clause to justify deductions, the Arabic text is the legally binding version. If the English side doesn’t mention professional cleaning but the Arabic side does, the Arabic requirement stands. RERA will read the Arabic when you file a dispute.

This is why getting the deposit-related clauses translated before you move out, not after, gives you an advantage. You can meet every stated condition before handing back the keys.

How to protect your deposit

Before you move out: Get the Arabic deposit and maintenance clauses in your tenancy contract translated. Know exactly what conditions you need to meet. Take time-stamped photos of the property’s condition.

At move-out: Provide everything the Arabic clause requires, professional cleaning receipt, DEWA clearance, key return acknowledgment. Get written confirmation from the landlord that you’ve met the conditions.

If they still withhold it: Request a written breakdown of deductions. Compare it against the Arabic contract text. If the deductions aren’t justified by the contract, file a case at RERA’s Rental Dispute Settlement Centre. Bring your contract (both versions), photos, and receipts.

When you’re already in the dispute

If you’re past the move-out stage and the landlord is holding your deposit, know what the Arabic contract says before going to RERA. A certified translation of the relevant clauses shows you, and the RERA adjudicator, exactly what both parties agreed to.

If your contract’s Arabic text doesn’t support the deductions your landlord is claiming, the translation becomes your evidence.

Need the deposit clause in your contract translated? Send it on WhatsApp: +971 50 862 0217. We’ll tell you what the Arabic says before your landlord does.