How to rent a property in Dubai

The answer depends on a few factors like your timeline, documentation, and whether you're being backed by a reputable real estate agency. We've helped some clients find their rental in as little as two days – but we can't promise you that this will be the case.After you've secured your rental, keep in mind that the quickest possible move-in date will be at least five days from the signing of the contract – which will give you enough time to register your Ejari, activate electricity and water services, and get your move-in permit. Bottom line: there's no straight answer here, but your Property Consultant will be able to give you a more accurate timeline based on your situation.

Both are great options, so it depends on what you need.

If you're a UAE resident looking for a yearly contract, long term leasing is the way to go. You can find furnished options or furnish it yourself, and the cost would be locked in for the entire year with one or more post-dated cheques depending on your agreement with the landlord.

If you're not a resident or just want to stay in Dubai for a few days, weeks or months, a fully equipped short term rental is a more flexible choice. You won't have to buy anything (not even kitchen utensils), you can choose how long to stay, and just pack your suitcase and leave when the lease is up.

Ejari (Arabic for 'my rent') is a quick and easy process that all tenants need to complete to register their tenancy contract. After signing the agreement, you'll have to take it to an Ejari centre (along with other documents that your Property Consultant will inform you of) and pay a minimum fee of AED 215 + 5% VAT. 

After your Ejari is completed, you'll receive a welcome SMS and email from DEWA (Dubai Electricity and Water Authority) with your account and premises number, as well as a link to pay the security deposit. Once you've paid the deposit, electricity and water services will be activated within 24 hours.

DEWA charges a security deposit of AED 2,000 for apartments and AED 4,000 for villas, and an activation fee of AED 130 + 5% VAT to set up your account.

Need help? Once your new tenancy contract is signed, our team can help with registering your DEWA and Ejari for just AED 1,400 (VAT Included).

Once you find your new rental property, you'll move on to the documentation to make it official.

Tenancy contract – Always go through it with your Property Consultant before signing. After you've understood the terms and got your questions answered, the contract will be signed by you and the landlord, and you'll both keep a copy.

Cheque(s) – In some cases you'll be able to pay for your rent via electronic platforms, but if you're asked to provide cheques, be prepared for many properties (especially in popular locations) to expect an upfront cheque for the whole year. However, some landlords may accept quarterly or even monthly cheques.

Make sure you have the agreed number of cheques with you along with the security deposit (can be a cheque or cash). Once you have them, your Property Consultant will hand them over to your landlord and give you receipts. 

It depends, but most likely. Most communities and apartment complexes will require you to apply for a permit to ensure that the movers can access the road and common areas to reach your home. In some locations without common areas this may not be required.

If we have the move-in permit details, our Customer Service team will send you an email with helpful links and instructions on how to apply.