Renting a Property

Begin by determining your budget. Consider all associated costs, including monthly rent, utility bills, and other service charges. The choice of location is crucial—select a neighbourhood that meets your lifestyle needs, whether it’s proximity to work, schools, or public transportation. Also, consider whether you prefer a furnished or unfurnished property, as this will impact your budget and the security deposit (5% for unfurnished, 10% for furnished properties).

Once you have a location in mind, research the facilities available within the building, such as gyms or swimming pools. Additionally, some buildings in Dubai are designated for families or as singles-only, so verifying these restrictions to ensure they align with your living situation is essential. Inspect the property thoroughly to check for any maintenance issues or damages. It’s advisable to request a rental good conduct certificate from the landlord to ensure there are no outstanding disputes or unpaid utility bills.

Partnering with a reputable and RERA-qualified real estate agent can alleviate much of the stress involved in renting. A knowledgeable agent will assist with property viewings, lease negotiations, and ensure that all necessary paperwork is in order.

After selecting a property, you’ll need to provide essential documents, including your Emirates ID, residency visa, and three cheques—one for the security deposit, one for the first rental payment, and one for the agent’s commission. Be aware that there are different types of contracts in Dubai, some of which are annual while others are short-term. The entire payment is made using cheques on the spot. For example, if it’s an annual contract with four payments, the annual rent is divided into four cheques submitted at the time of the agreement. Additionally, some agents may require a booking fee to hold the apartment in your name; this fee is usually adjusted in your rental payments. Ensure that all terms and conditions are clearly outlined in the Ejari contract system, as any verbal agreements not included in the contract will not be enforceable later.

Registering your tenancy with Ejari is a mandatory step. This can be done online or in person at an Ejari center. Registration ensures your rental agreement is legally recognized and is necessary for setting up essential services like DEWA (Dubai Electricity and Water Authority).

Before moving in, conduct a detailed inspection of the property. Document any pre-existing damage and ensure these are noted in the inspection report. This will protect your security deposit when moving out, as you will not be held responsible for any existing issues.

Once your Ejari is registered, you can set up your utilities. DEWA services can be activated online or at a self-service kiosk. Ensure that all other utilities, such as gas and air conditioning, are also connected before you move in.