How to Rent a Property in Dubai

In Dubai you are required to pay your rent in post- dated cheques for the contract term. Between 1-4 cheques is the industry practice, with usually better deals for renters who are prepared to pay in less cheques. You will also require a passport copy, resident visa copy and a cheque book to rent in Dubai.
Do not forget to budget in these additional costs:
- Ejari fees: AED 195
- Security deposit: equivalent to 4 weeks rent.
- Agency fee: usually between 2 to 5% of first annual rent
- Moving fees: dependent on property and bedroom type, and varies by moving agency
- Agency fee: usually between 2 to 5% of first annual rent.
- DEWA fees: AED 110 non-refundable connection, along with a refundable deposit (AED 2,000 for apartment / AED 4,000 for villas).

Speak with friends, family, colleagues and search online. There are many things to consider when it comes to choosing the right property, and that includes: community, property type, location and connectivity. Find an experienced agent to work with you to understand your budget, wants and requirements, to provide a selection of properties for you to view. Going through an agency also means that the landlord has been vetted, and that you will have an industry expert explaining all the laws and procedures when it comes to tenancy, ensuring a smooth transition process when moving into your new home.

Once you find the right home. You will make an offer. At this time both parties (tenant and landlord) will enter a negotiation that will be facilitated by your agent. You will offer on price, amount of cheques you will pay in, contract start date and duration, and the deposit amount. These are the key conditions to agree upon. Other conditions could include decoration, pets, furnishing, garden, etc. Sometimes a landlord will agree to reduce the total rental amount if the number of cheques is reduced.

Once you both agree, terms of the tenancy contract will need to be drafted. These must fully comply with tenancy laws in Dubai to be a valid contract, which your RERA registered agent will ensure and take care of. At this time, you will be required to give copies of your passport and visa pages along with a 5% security deposit to reserve the property.

Once all parties are happy with the contracts, both will be required to sign. At this time, you will hand over the rent cheques as per the terms of rent, along with the agency commission. Once everything is signed and cheques are handed over, keys and access cards will be given to you. Both parties will receive a copy of the contract.

You will need to submit the following documents to DEWA (Dubai Electricity & Water Authority) in order to get connected
- DEWA number (found on property’s side entrance)
- Passport copies (tenant and landlord)
- DEWA form
- Title Deed
- Setup fee: AED 110
- Refundable deposit: AED 2,000 / 4,000 depending on property type.
Activation is within 24hours of completing the registration and payment.

Registering with Ejari is required, and you will find that you need a copy of your Ejari Certificate for visa renewals, etc. while living and working in Dubai. The following documents are needed to complete Ejari registration:
- Original tenancy contract.
- Original DEWA receipt of connection in tenant’s name.
- Title deed
- Copy of passports (tenant and landlord)
- Copy of Emirates ID

There are developers that will require tenants to submit an NOC in order to move into the property. This can be obtained with the following:
- Ejari Certificate
- Tenant passport and visa copies
- Copy of Tenancy Contract
- Move-in Form

Before you schedule a time to move in with your preferred moving company, ensure that you are aware of any restrictions with regards to the date and time (As an example, some buildings will not allow tenants to move in on a Friday).
Final things to consider:
- Check for any issues with the property, and take photos to share with your agent and landlord to prove that they were not caused by you.
- Resolve any maintenance issues.
- Ask for the property to be cleaned if it hasn’t been already.
Remember, a property must be handed over to you in a habitable condition before you move in.