Can I paint my Dubai rental apartment a different colour?
I want to paint my Dubai rental apartment bedroom a deep green colour rather than the standard white it came in. Am I allowed to do this under Dubai tenancy law and what happens at the end of my tenancy?
1 Answer
1 Jul 2026
Painting a Rental Apartment in Dubai
There is no specific UAE law that prohibits tenants from repainting their apartment. However, most Dubai tenancy contracts include clauses requiring tenants to return the property in the same condition as received at the start of the tenancy. A non-standard paint colour would need to be repainted to the original colour before handover, or the landlord can deduct the cost of repainting from your security deposit.
Best Practice Before Repainting
The safest approach is to get written permission from your landlord before repainting in a non-standard colour. Explain your plans and offer in writing to repaint to the original colour before moving out. Many Dubai landlords are agreeable to this approach as it does not affect their position at the end of the tenancy. Keep a record of the original paint colour, ideally by noting the brand and colour code if visible, or by keeping a painted test patch behind a door.
What Happens at Move-Out
If you have repainted without permission and do not restore the original colour before handover, the landlord can legitimately deduct repainting costs from your security deposit. If you have written permission and restore the colour as agreed, you should have no deduction. Move-out inspections in Dubai routinely check paintwork condition.
This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. UAE tenancy law varies by emirate and individual circumstances. For specific tenancy disputes, consult a licensed legal professional or RERA.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can my Dubai landlord deduct repainting costs from my deposit?+
Yes, if you have repainted without permission or left a non-standard colour at move-out, your landlord can deduct the cost of restoring the original paintwork from your security deposit. The deduction must be reasonable and reflect the actual cost of repainting. Documenting the original condition with photos at move-in protects you from unfair claims.
Do I need to repaint an entire apartment when leaving Dubai?+
You are required to return the property in the same condition as when you moved in, allowing for fair wear and tear. Normal scuffs and minor marks from everyday use are generally considered fair wear and tear and are not grounds for deduction. Large areas of damage, non-standard colours, or deliberate alterations are your responsibility to restore.
What paint colours are standard in Dubai apartments?+
Most Dubai apartments come with white or off-white walls in a standard vinyl matt or soft sheen emulsion. Dulux White Cotton, Jotun Brilliant White, and similar neutral tones are common. If you repaint, photograph the original colour and note the sheen level so you can match it exactly when restoring before move-out.
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