YOUR GUIDE TO SMARTER, HIGHER-EARNING PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
Can I Sublease My Apartment on Airbnb in Dubai?
By Chris Veinbaums | Founder, Royale Stays Dubai | DTCM Licensed Operator
Published: 10 April 2026
About our data: figures drawn from DET and DTCM official reports, live listing analysis, and Royale Stays operational data across managed properties in Dubai.
Many Dubai tenants want to list their apartment on Airbnb when they travel or to generate income. This guide explains exactly what is legal, what you need from your landlord, and how to get the DTCM permit as a tenant. See also: the complete Dubai Airbnb management guide.
In Short
Subleasing a rented apartment on Airbnb in Dubai is legal, but requires three things: written NOC from your landlord, a DTCM holiday home permit in the operator name, and a trade licence if operating commercially. Without all three, you are operating illegally under Law 36 of 2020. The Dubai Airbnb management guide explains the full legal framework.
Is It Legal
Yes, with the correct permissions. Dubai Law 36 of 2020 permits tenants to operate short-term rentals from their rented accommodation provided they have explicit written consent from the property owner and hold a valid DTCM permit. Operating without the landlord NOC is a breach of tenancy contract and carries permit application rejection or cancellation. Airbnb itself requires the DTCM licence number to be listed on the property before it can be published. See legal requirements for Airbnb Dubai.
What You Need From the Landlord
The landlord NOC must be in writing, signed, and specifically state permission for short-term rental activity. A verbal agreement is not sufficient for the DTCM permit application. The NOC should reference the property address, the tenant name, and the nature of the permitted activity. Some landlords charge a fee for issuing an NOC or add a sublease supplement to the annual rent. If your landlord refuses, you cannot legally sublease the property for short-term rental under any circumstances.
DTCM Permit for Tenants
The DTCM permit application process is identical for tenants and property owners. You apply as the operator, submit the landlord NOC alongside the tenancy contract, and complete the property inspection. The permit is issued in your name as the operator. If you later vacate the property, the permit cannot be transferred to a new tenant, and the landlord would need to apply for a new permit if they wish to continue short-term rental activity. See the short-term rental licence Dubai application guide.
Risks to Know
The primary risk is landlord relationship breakdown if the tenancy contract changes or is terminated before your permit period ends. Your permit does not protect you if the landlord sells the property or refuses to renew your tenancy. Operating costs including the DTCM permit fee, furnishing, and platform commissions sit with you as the tenant operator, not the landlord. If occupancy is lower than expected, the fixed costs still apply. Most professional operators structure sublease agreements with a revenue-share clause to align landlord and operator incentives.
Conclusion
Subleasing on Airbnb in Dubai is a legitimate path for tenants in the right circumstances, but the legal requirements are non-negotiable. A written landlord NOC and a valid DTCM permit are both required before you list. If you need guidance on whether your property qualifies and how to structure the arrangement correctly, submit your property to Royale Stays for a free consultation.
FAQ
1. Can a tenant get an Airbnb permit in Dubai without the landlord knowing?
No. The DTCM permit application requires a landlord NOC as a mandatory document. Applications without it are rejected. Operating without a permit carries fines under Law 36 of 2020.
2. How much does it cost to get a DTCM permit as a tenant?
The permit fees are the same regardless of whether you are an owner or tenant: AED 1,520 for standard classification, plus inspection fees. The landlord NOC itself may carry a separate fee depending on your landlord.
3. What happens if my landlord withdraws the NOC after I have a permit?
DTCM can cancel your permit if the landlord withdraws written consent. You would need to cease operations and are liable for any outstanding bookings. Always ensure your tenancy contract term covers your intended permit period.
4. Can I sublease a room rather than the whole apartment on Airbnb in Dubai?
Dubai does not permit room-by-room short-term rental under the standard DTCM holiday home permit. The permit covers the entire unit. Renting individual rooms as homestay requires a separate approval category.
5. Does my landlord share in the Airbnb income if they give me an NOC?
Not automatically. Your tenancy contract and any sublease addendum determine the arrangement. Some landlords charge a higher rent or a percentage of STR revenue in exchange for the NOC. This is a private negotiation between tenant and landlord.