Renting a property in Dubai is one of the first steps for every new expat. With hundreds of communities, different rental rules, and the famous Ejari registration system, it can feel overwhelming at first.
The good news? Dubai’s rental process is clear, standardized, and safe, as long as you follow the correct steps.
This 2025 guide explains everything you need to know before signing a rental contract deposits, RERA laws, cheques, fees, timelines, and practical tips.
1. How Renting Works in Dubai (2025 Overview)
Dubai rentals operate under RERA regulations (Real Estate Regulatory Agency), which protect both tenants and landlords.
Key points:
- Contracts are usually 12 months
- Payment is often by cheques or bank transfer
- Ejari registration is mandatory
- Rent increases follow an official RERA calculator
2. Required Documents for Renting
To rent an apartment or villa, you usually need:
- Passport copy
- Visa copy / Emirates ID (or application paper)
- Proof of income
- Contact details
- Security deposit
Some landlords accept tenants who are still waiting for their residence visa.
3. The Rental Process (Step-by-Step)
Step 1 — Choose the Area
Popular expat areas:
- Marina
- JBR
- Downtown
- JVC
- Business Bay
- Arabian Ranches
- Dubai Hills
Step 2 — View Properties
Agents typically arrange several viewings in one day.
Step 3 — Make an Offer
Tenants can negotiate:
- rental price
- number of cheques
- move‑in date
Step 4 — Sign the Tenancy Contract
A standard RERA contract.
Step 5 — Pay Deposit & First Rent
- Deposit: 5 percent (unfurnished) / 10 percent (furnished)
- Agency fee: 5 percent of annual rent
Step 6 — Register Ejari
Required for:
- opening DEWA
- internet
- visa
- official proof of residence
Step 7 — Move In
Complete DEWA setup → collect keys → final inspection.
4. Understanding Ejari (Mandatory Registration)
Ejari is the official government system that registers rental contracts.
Why it’s important:
- protects you legally
- required for utilities
- required for visa sponsorship
- proves your address in Dubai
Cost: around 220 AED
5. Deposits, Fees & Payments
Security Deposit:
- 5 percent of rent (unfurnished)
- 10 percent (furnished)
Agency Fee:
- 5 percent of annual rent
Ejari Fee:
- 220 AED
DEWA Setup:
- 2000–4000 AED refundable deposit
- 130 AED activation fee
6. Cheques, Bank Transfers & Payment Rules
Dubai traditionally uses cheques, but bank transfers are increasingly accepted.
Payment options:
- 1 cheque — best price, less flexibility
- 2–4 cheques — standard
- 6–12 cheques — increasingly accepted in 2025
Always verify the landlord’s name matches the title deed.
7. RERA Rental Increase Calculator (2025 Rules)
Landlords cannot increase rent freely.
Rent increases follow:
- the official RERA calculator
- based on market value
- based on your current rent
Example:
If your rent is already close to market average → no increase allowed.
You can check on the Dubai REST App (RERA section).
8. Tenant Rights & Obligations (Important)
Tenant Rights:
- No rent increase without RERA approval
- 90‑day notice for non‑renewal
- Refundable deposit
- Property must be in livable condition
Tenant Obligations:
- Pay rent on time
- Maintain minor repairs
- Respect building rules
9. Move-In Checklist
Before moving in:
- inspect walls, floors, appliances
- take photos of any damage
- test AC, plumbing, electricity
- check parking access
- confirm chiller fees
Hidden costs to check:
- chiller fees
- parking fees
- maintenance charges
10. Average Rental Prices in 2025
Apartments:
- Studio: 40k–70k AED
- 1BR: 60k–110k AED
- 2BR: 90k–180k AED
- 3BR: 150k–280k AED
Villas:
- 3BR villa: 180k–350k AED
- 4BR villa: 220k–450k AED
Prices vary depending on location, view, and building quality.
Conclusion
Renting in Dubai is straightforward once you understand the process — from deposits to Ejari to RERA rules. With the right agent and the right community, you can find a beautiful home that fits your lifestyle and budget.
Find real estate agents, relocation experts, inspection services, and property management companies on The Expat Services Directory your trusted platform for expat life in Dubai.
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