Dubai Tenant Guide: Renting a Property

Renting in Dubai means setting a total budget, viewing and checking the property and landlord, agreeing terms in a written tenancy contract, paying the deposit and rent cheques, registering Ejari and connecting DEWA. Know the rules on increases, notices and maintenance before you sign.

Updated 27 October 2026 · 1 min read

The renting path is budget → search and view → check the landlord → agree and sign the contract → pay deposit and cheques → register Ejari → connect DEWA and move in.

Budget for more than the rent

Cost Typical amount
Annual rent Paid by one or several cheques
Security deposit Commonly 5% of annual rent (unfurnished) or 10% (furnished)
Agency fee Commonly 5% of annual rent + VAT, if a broker is involved
Ejari registration A small fee, usually a few hundred dirhams
DEWA deposit Refundable; higher for villas than apartments
Housing fee Added to your DEWA bill, a percentage of annual rent

Step by step

  1. Search and view

    Check the commute, building condition, parking and noise. Ask what is included, such as chiller or maintenance.

  2. Check the landlord

    See the title deed and landlord ID, or the landlord’s authority if an agent or manager signs.

  3. Agree the terms

    Rent, number of cheques, start date, deposit, maintenance and any special conditions.

  4. Sign and pay

    Sign the tenancy contract, then hand over the deposit and rent cheques.

  5. Register Ejari and move in

    Ejari registration lets you connect DEWA. See Ejari, deposit and move-in.

Know your rights

  • Rent increases are limited by the official rental index. See rent increases and renewals.
  • Changes at renewal need 90 days’ notice.
  • Eviction for sale or the landlord’s own use needs 12 months’ notice.
  • Disputes go to the Rental Dispute Settlement Centre. See rental disputes.

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

What do I need to rent a property in Dubai?

Usually your passport, residence visa and Emirates ID, plus the deposit and rent cheques. The landlord or agent will provide the contract and title deed details.

How many cheques do landlords accept?

It varies. One to four cheques a year is common, and fewer cheques often secures a better rent.

Is Ejari mandatory?

Yes. Tenancy contracts must be registered in Ejari, and you need it to connect DEWA and for many visa and government services.

How much is the security deposit in Dubai?

It is set in the contract. Commonly 5% of annual rent for unfurnished and 10% for furnished homes.

Keep reading

Sources

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