How to Rent Out Property in Dubai: A Landlord Guide

Price the rent from recent registered leases, prepare the property, screen tenants consistently, sign a written tenancy contract and register it in Ejari. During the tenancy, keep records, follow the rules on rent increases and notices, and respond to maintenance promptly.

Updated 27 October 2026 · 1 min read

The landlord path is price → prepare → find and check a tenant → sign the contract → register Ejari → manage the tenancy.

  1. Set the rent

    Use recent registered rents for similar units and check the Land Department rental index.

  2. Prepare the property

    Clean, repair and make sure appliances and air conditioning work. Gather the title deed and your ID.

  3. Market and screen

    Use a licensed broker or advertise with a valid permit. Check the tenant’s ID, visa and ability to pay.

  4. Sign the tenancy contract

    Record rent, payment schedule (often by cheques), security deposit, maintenance responsibilities and permitted use.

  5. Register Ejari

    The tenancy must be registered in Ejari, the Land Department’s tenancy system. It lets the tenant connect utilities.

  6. Manage the tenancy

    Keep payment and maintenance records. Rent increases and notices follow strict rules: see rent increases and renewals.

Key rules for landlords

  • Changes to rent or terms at renewal need at least 90 days’ notice before the contract ends.
  • Rent increases are capped by the official rental index.
  • Ending a tenancy for sale or own use needs 12 months’ notice by notary or registered mail.
  • Landlords are usually responsible for major maintenance unless agreed otherwise.

This guide is general information, not legal, tax, financial or lending advice. Fees, rules and procedures change and depend on the property, the parties and the contract. Confirm current details with the relevant authority and qualified advisers before acting.

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Common questions

Do I have to register a tenancy in Ejari?

Yes. Tenancy contracts in Dubai must be registered in Ejari, the Land Department's tenancy registration system.

How much security deposit can I take?

It is agreed in the contract. Market practice is commonly 5% of annual rent for unfurnished and 10% for furnished properties.

Can I increase the rent at renewal?

Only within the limits of the official rental index, and with at least 90 days' notice before the contract ends.

Keep reading

Sources

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