I myself insisted this law with the company that handles our building. They just denied having heard of the new law. And to think that the owner of the company is a member/relative of the Royal Family. We still paid the increase of 10%. Other than that, you may want to go to court, pay them the old rent and have them pay the landlord. This is possible. However, the implications might be more of a problem as the landlord might decide not to maintain your building so that you'll be forced out of it. But I've heard of people getting this matter to court and actually winning. It's up to you if it's worth the hassle and time to pursue it in court.
The rent law is crap!
http://lifeonthespot.com/blog/2008/09/qatar_rent_law_is_crap.php
I myself insisted this law with the company that handles our building. They just denied having heard of the new law. And to think that the owner of the company is a member/relative of the Royal Family. We still paid the increase of 10%. Other than that, you may want to go to court, pay them the old rent and have them pay the landlord. This is possible. However, the implications might be more of a problem as the landlord might decide not to maintain your building so that you'll be forced out of it. But I've heard of people getting this matter to court and actually winning. It's up to you if it's worth the hassle and time to pursue it in court.