What is Ejari and why is it mandatory?

Ejari is the official online registration system established by the Dubai Land Department (DLD) that legalizes the rental agreement between a landlord and tenant. It is required to activate DEWA (electricity and water), set up internet service, and legally protect your rights in the event of a rental dispute.

How much notice must a landlord give for a rent increase?

According to RERA laws, landlords must provide tenants with at least 90 days' written notice prior to the expiration of the tenancy contract if they intend to increase the rent. Any increase must align strictly with the official RERA Rental Price Index calculator.

Is the security deposit refundable at the end of the lease?

Yes, the security deposit is fully refundable when you vacate the property. The landlord can only make deductions to cover damage that exceeds normal wear and tear, or to settle outstanding utility bills. It is highly recommended to take photos of the property condition when moving in.

How to Rent a Property in Dubai Step-by-Step Guide

01

Search and Verify Listings

Begin hunting for your ideal property in communities that match your commute and lifestyle preferences. When working with an agent, ensure they are RERA-licensed and verify that the property listing has an official Trakheesi permit number to guarantee it is legitimate and currently available.

Begin hunting for your ideal property in communities that match your commute and lifestyle preferences. When working with an agent, ensure they are RERA-licensed and verify that the property listing h...

02

Secure the Property with a Deposit

Once you find the right place, you will secure it by handing over a refundable security deposit check, typically 5% of the annual rent for unfurnished homes or 10% for furnished properties. This check is held by the registered brokerage firm until the lease contract is officially signed.

Once you find the right place, you will secure it by handing over a refundable security deposit check, typically 5% of the annual rent for unfurnished homes or 10% for furnished properties. This check...

03

Review and Sign the RERA Tenancy Contract

Your broker will draft the standard RERA Unified Tenancy Contract. Carefully review the formal terms, paying close attention to addendum clauses regarding the maximum number of rental checks, maintenance responsibilities (usually repairs under AED 500 are paid by the tenant), and renewal notice requirements.

Your broker will draft the standard RERA Unified Tenancy Contract. Carefully review the formal terms, paying close attention to addendum clauses regarding the maximum number of rental checks, maintena...

04

Register Your Ejari Contract

Once both parties sign the contract, it must be officially registered in the Dubai Land Department's Ejari system. This step is legally mandatory; it converts your contract into a legally binding document that protects your rights and creates an official record of your lease framework.

Once both parties sign the contract, it must be officially registered in the Dubai Land Department's Ejari system. This step is legally mandatory; it converts your contract into a legally binding docu...

05

Activate DEWA and Move In

With your Ejari certificate in hand, you can easily activate your Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) account online and pay the activation deposit. Simultaneously, apply for any required community move-in permits from the developer so your moving day proceeds without any delays.

With your Ejari certificate in hand, you can easily activate your Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) account online and pay the activation deposit. Simultaneously, apply for any required com...

How to Rent a Property in Dubai: Step-by-Step Guide

The Complete Tenant Blueprint for Expats & Residents

01

Search and Verify Listings

02

Secure the Property with a Deposit

03

Review and Sign the RERA Tenancy Contract

04

Register Your Ejari Contract

05

Activate DEWA and Move In

Frequently Asked Questions

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