Set your budget
Rent is usually paid in 1–4 cheques; fewer cheques often secure a lower rent. Add the deposit, commission, Ejari and DEWA costs to your move-in budget.
View and shortlist
Check the building’s condition, parking, commute and whether chiller (AC) charges are included, as they change monthly costs a lot.
Prepare your documents
Passport, residence visa and Emirates ID. The landlord should show the title deed (or a power of attorney) so you know you are dealing with the owner.
Sign and register on Ejari
Sign the unified tenancy contract and make sure it is registered on Ejari. You need it for DEWA, family visas and any dispute.
Move in
Connect DEWA (a refundable deposit applies), request the building move-in permit and record the unit’s condition with dated photos.
Renew or move out
Landlords must give 90 days’ notice of any changes before renewal. When leaving, follow your contract’s notice period, hand over the keys and get your deposit back after inspection.
Tenant costs at a glance
| Security deposit | 5% (unfurnished) / 10% (furnished) of annual rent |
|---|---|
| Agency commission | Typically 5% of annual rent + VAT |
| Ejari registration | Approx. AED 220 |
| DEWA deposit | AED 2,000 apartment / AED 4,000 villa (refundable) |
| Housing fee | 5% of annual rent, added monthly to the DEWA bill |
This guide is for general information only. Fees and regulations change, so confirm with the relevant authority or speak with our team before making a decision.
Frequently asked questions
Can my landlord raise the rent at any time?
No. Increases apply only at renewal, must follow the RERA Rental Index and require 90 days’ written notice.
What if I have a dispute with my landlord?
You can file a case with the Rental Dispute Settlement Centre (RDC) using your Ejari-registered contract.
Can I end my lease early?
Follow the early-termination clause in your contract; commonly one to two months’ rent is charged as a penalty.
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