UAE: Sharjah offers tenants major relief; 50% fee cut and full fine waiver for expired lease contracts

The Sharjah Executive Council has approved a settlement plan for unauthorised lease contracts across the emirate, offering tenants and landlords significant fee and fine exemptions under new regulations.

Chaired by His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, and Chairman of the Executive Council, the meeting was held at the Ruler’s Office on Tuesday, in the presence of Sheikh Abdullah bin Salem bin Sultan Al Qasimi and Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, both Deputy Rulers and Deputy Chairmen of the Council.

50% fee reduction and full fine exemption
Under the new decision, tenants and landlords with previously uncertified lease contracts—signed before the implementation of Law No. (5) of 2024 on real estate leasing and its executive regulations—will now have the opportunity to regularise their agreements without facing heavy penalties.

Those who come forward to certify their old leases will receive a 50 per cent discount on authentication fees, along with a complete waiver of administrative fines that would normally apply for failing to register their contracts on time.

The decision is designed to encourage residents and property owners to update their legal records and ensure compliance with the latest real estate regulations, without the burden of backdated penalties.

This exemption applies to all types of leases—including residential, commercial, industrial, and investment—and will remain in effect from 1 November to 31 December 2025.
It specifically covers contracts that expired before 19 September 2024, providing a limited two-month window for parties to settle their paperwork and bring their rental arrangements in line with the new law.

New Hasad Centre to support food security
The Council also approved the Hasad Centre Project , a new initiative aimed at strengthening Sharjah’s food security system and supporting citizen farmers.
The centre will act as a central hub for fruit and vegetable collection, helping to streamline distribution and provide packaging services that meet quality and food safety standards.

It will also enable farmers to sign advance contracts with distributors and retail outlets, reducing market risks and supporting long-term agricultural planning.
The initiative aligns with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, to enhance agricultural productivity and sustainability in the emirate.

Sharjah prepares for UAE’s 54th National Day

During the meeting, the Council also reviewed plans for the 54th UAE National Day celebrations across Sharjah, the third largest of the seven emirates that make up the UAE. The festivities will feature artistic, theatrical, and folkloric performances, along with heritage zones and family-friendly activities held across the emirate’s cities and regions.
The celebrations aim to foster unity and national pride, reflecting Sharjah’s ongoing commitment to preserving its cultural heritage and strengthening community bonds.