Documents, fees, agents, landlords, and bills... it feels like a lot to think about, right? Follow this step by step guide, and you'll be in your new home in no time!
Tip: to rent a property, you'll need to have your passport, visa, Emirates ID and cheque book.
1. Find your perfect home.
Check out some property listings on Property Finder, Bayut and other portals, and contact the agent to set up some viewings. Once you've found the perfect property, agree the rental price with the landlord via the agent.
Tip: In Dubai, rent is often paid in as minimal cheques as possible, so be sure to ask the agent how many the landlord is looking for. If this is 2 cheques, this means that 6 months rent will be paid upfront each time.
2. Draft contracts & deposit.
Your agent will ask you to provide a copy of your passport, visa, and Emirates ID, as well as your email and contact number. The agent will use these to create the Tenancy Agreement & Addendum, and these documents will be checked and accepted by both you and the landlord. A deposit will also be paid (5% for unfurnished, 10% for furnished).
Tip: The deposit ensures that the listing is removed, and the property is secured for you. The deposit cannot be refunded if you change your mind, however, it is refunded at the end of the contract providing the apartment is returned in the same condition when you move out.
3. Sign contracts & pay.
Upon signing the agreements it is your responsibility to provide the agents fee (5% + VAT, or AED 5000 flat fee for rentals below AED 100,000), as well as the rental cheques.
Tip: Ensure you have a signed copy of both Tenancy Agreement & Addendum, and a copy of the property Title Deed, landlords passport, visa and Emirates ID as you will need these in the next step.
4. Register Ejari & DEWA.
Ejari - This can be set up online (providing your landlord is registered) or at an Ejari Center Location, open 8am-8pm except for Saturday and Friday Prayer time.
Take with you: Title Deed, Tenancy Contract, copy of landlords passport, visa, EID, and your own passport, visa and Emirates ID. Registration Fee: AED 220.
DEWA (electricity and water) - Once Ejari is set up, immediatly you will recieve a link via email. From here you can follow the steps to set up the DEWA.
Refundable Registration Fee: AED 2000, Activation Fee: AED 130.
Tip: Download the DEWA app to pay your bills.
5. Moving in.
You are almost there! Next you should apply for your move in permit and collect your keys/access cards from the agent. Your move in permit will depend on the building, this can be checked with the agent, landlord or building management/security.
Fee: FREE!
6. Inspect & connect utilities.
Finally, now that you have your keys and can visit the property, don't forget to connect your other utilities (if applicable):
Air Conditioning & Gas - again this will depend on the building so check with the agent, landlord or building management/security.
Fee: 1000dhs approx. each for deposit + activation.
Fee: depends on the company and the package you opt for.
Tip: Thoroughly check over the property before moving in any of your items to ensure there are no damages, leaks, missing items etc. You have 10 days from the start of your contract to report any problems to your landlord.
CONGRATULATIONS!
You are now ready in your new home!
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