The Dubai rental market is shifting once again, and tenants are feeling the pressure. Landlords are demanding rent increases of 15% to 30%, but there’s a catch—if you agree to pay the full amount in one cheque, you might get a slight discount. Otherwise, choosing multiple cheques could mean paying even more!

If you’re a tenant in Dubai, here’s what you need to know about this growing trend and how it might impact your next lease renewal.

One-Cheque vs. Multiple Payments: What’s the Deal?

Landlords are now using cheque payments as a bargaining tool. Here’s how it works:

Pay in one cheque? You could get a small discount (around 20% rent increase instead of 30%).
Prefer multiple cheques? Expect a higher rent increase, sometimes up to 25% more than what you paid last year.

Many tenants now face a difficult decision—pay upfront and save in the long run or stretch payments and accept higher costs.

“I currently pay Dh74,000 for my two-bedroom apartment, but my landlord wants Dh95,000 for renewal. They offered Dh90,000 if I pay in one cheque, but that’s still too much for me,” says a frustrated tenant.

Why Are Landlords Doing This?

1. The New Rental Index Effect:
Dubai’s digital Rental Index is helping landlords justify higher prices, especially in newer, high-rated buildings. If just a few apartments in a tower are leased at higher rates, it sets a new standard for the entire area.

2. Strong Rental Demand:
Despite four years of rent hikes, demand remains high, and landlords know they can push prices up.

3. A Way to Secure Long-Term Payments:
A one-cheque payment ensures landlords get their money upfront, reducing the risk of bounced cheques or late payments.

The Real Struggle for Tenants

While some renters can afford a lump-sum payment, many rely on multiple cheques to manage their cash flow. Some are even turning to loans or credit cards just to meet rent demands—leading to higher long-term costs.

Affordable areas aren’t much better!
Even in Dubai’s budget-friendly neighborhoods, rents haven’t dropped significantly. Tenants looking for cheaper alternatives aren’t finding many options.

What Can Tenants Do?

• Negotiate payment terms with landlords—some may accept fewer cheques (e.g., 2 instead of 4).
• Explore different areas where rent increases aren’t as aggressive.
• Look for newer buildings offering flexible payment plans.

Final Thoughts: Should You Pay in One Cheque?

If you have the funds, paying one cheque might save you some money in the long run. But for most renters, flexibility is key—and landlords demanding upfront payments are making it harder to budget.

What do you think? Are you facing higher rent renewals in Dubai? Would you pay in one cheque if it meant a lower increase? Let me know in the comments!