How much is a standard security deposit in Dubai and what can landlords deduct?

Standard security deposit in Dubai: 5% of annual rent for unfurnished properties and 10% for furnished properties. This is the standard set by Dubai tenancy law, though some landlords ask for more — you can negotiate. What a landlord can legally deduct from your deposit: Damage beyond fair wear and tear — broken fixtures, holes in walls, damaged doors, scratched floors from negligence. Unpaid rent or utility bills. Cleaning costs if the property is returned in an unreasonably dirty condition beyond normal use. Cost of repainting non-standard colours. What a landlord CANNOT legally deduct: Normal wear and tear — minor scuffs, faded paint, light carpet wear from normal use. Maintenance issues that are the landlord's responsibility (AC repairs, plumbing, structural). Cleaning costs if the property is returned in reasonable condition. The deposit must be returned within 30 days of lease end and property handover. If the landlord makes deductions, they must provide an itemised breakdown in writing. If you disagree with deductions, file at the Dubai Rental Dispute Centre — filing fee is 3.5% of annual rent (minimum AED 500). The RDC process is relatively fast and landlords frequently lose cases involving unreasonable deductions. Always do a joint check-out inspection with your landlord and get sign-off on the condition in writing.