STEP BY STEP GUIDE TO
RENTING REAL ESTATE IN DUBAI
1. Define Your Budget & Requirements
Before starting your property search, it’s crucial to understand your financial limits and what you need in a rental home. Consider:
Rent Affordability: Dubai typically requires rent payment in post-dated cheques for the lease term. More favorable deals often come with fewer cheques.
Additional Costs: Factor in Ejari fees, security deposit (5-10% of rent), potential moving fees, agency fees, and DEWA connection costs with refundable deposit.
Essential Documents: You’ll need a passport, resident visa, Emirates ID, and a checkbook. If your visa is under process, a letter from your company may suffice with your agent’s assistance.
2. Finding Your Ideal Rental Home
Begin your search for the perfect rental property. Here’s how:
Network & Research: Consult friends, family, colleagues, and browse online listings to get an idea of available options.
Key Factors: Consider location, community amenities, property type (apartment, villa, etc.), and transportation links.
Engage an Agent: A reputable agent can streamline the process, matching your needs with suitable properties and explaining tenancy laws and procedures.
Read Reviews: Check online reviews and inquire about the property’s management. A good property manager ensures smooth handling of future maintenance needs.
3. Schedule Property Viewings
Your agent plays a crucial role in arranging viewings and guiding you through options. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Tailored Viewings: Your agent will suggest properties that align with your budget and preferences. Schedule viewings until you find the right fit.
Avoid Duplication: Stick with one agent to view properties. This prevents confusion for the landlord and maintains a professional approach.
4. Submitting Your Offer
Found the right place? It’s time to make an offer! This involves negotiations facilitated by your agent. Key factors include:
Rental Price: Your initial offer may be below the asking price.
Payment Terms: Determine the number of cheques you’re willing to provide. Fewer cheques can sometimes lead to a lower overall rent.
Lease Details: Agree on the start date, duration, and deposit amount.
Additional Conditions: Specify any specific requirements like furnishing, pets, or minor renovations.
5. Finalizing the Rental Agreement
Once you and the landlord reach an agreement, the terms will be outlined in a tenancy contract.
Legal Compliance: Your RERA-registered agent will ensure the contract adheres to Dubai’s tenancy laws, protecting your rights.
Security Deposit: Typically 5% for unfurnished or 10% for furnished properties.
6. Signing the Contract & Payment
It’s time to formalize the agreement! This stage involves:
Contract Signing: Both tenant and landlord sign the contract.
Payment: You’ll hand over the rent cheques according to the agreed terms, along with the agency commission.
Key Handover: Once payment clears, you’ll receive the keys and access cards to your new home.
7. Registering with Ejari
Ejari registration is mandatory in Dubai and essential for various administrative tasks:
Required Documents: Tenancy contract, title deed, passport copies (tenant & landlord), and Emirates ID.
Importance: Ejari is often needed for visa renewals, family sponsorship, and other services.
8. Connecting DEWA (Electricity & Water)
To set up utilities, you’ll need to provide the following to DEWA:
DEWA Number (found on the property)
Passport copies (tenant & landlord)
DEWA form and title deed
Fees: Setup fee (AED 130) and refundable deposit (AED 2,000 for apartments, AED 4,000 for villas)
9. Preparing for Your Move-In
The final steps before settling into your new home:
NOC (if required): Some buildings require a move-in permit. Obtain this with your Ejari certificate, passport, visa, tenancy contract, and a move-in form.
Scheduling: Coordinate the move-in date and time with your movers, ensuring it aligns with any building restrictions.
Pre-Move-In Check: Inspect the property for any issues, documenting them with photos for your agent and landlord. Request a professional cleaning if needed.
Congratulations! You’re ready to move into your new Dubai rental!
