Price it with the Rental Index
Check the DLD Smart Rental Index and recent leases in your building. Over-pricing costs more in empty weeks than a slightly lower rent.
Prepare the unit
Deep clean, fix maintenance items and decide between furnished and unfurnished. Furnished units command higher rents but suit shorter stays.
Long-term lease or holiday home
Long-term leases give stable income. Short-term holiday homes can earn more but require a Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) permit and active management.
Screen tenants and agree terms
Verify Emirates ID, visa and employment. Agree the rent, number of cheques (1–4 is common), security deposit and maintenance responsibilities.
Sign and register on Ejari
Sign the unified tenancy contract and register it on Ejari. Registration is mandatory and protects you in any dispute.
Renewals and rent increases
Any change to terms must be notified at least 90 days before expiry. Rent increases are capped by the RERA Rental Index depending on how far below market the current rent is.
Leasing costs at a glance
| Ejari registration | Approx. AED 220 |
|---|---|
| Security deposit (paid by tenant) | Usually 5% unfurnished / 10% furnished |
| Leasing commission | Commonly 5% of annual rent (paid by tenant) |
| Holiday home permit | DET registration and annual fees apply |
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 I ask a tenant to leave so I can sell or move in?
Only with 12 months’ written notice served through a notary public or registered mail, and only for reasons allowed by law such as personal use or sale.
How much can I increase the rent?
Increases follow the RERA Rental Index: if your rent is within 10% of the average market rent, no increase is allowed; beyond that, the cap rises in steps up to 20%.
Who pays for maintenance?
Unless the contract says otherwise, the landlord handles major maintenance and the tenant handles minor day-to-day upkeep.
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