Tenant's Guide
Want to Rent a Property? Get the right knowledge from our experts or refer to the guide below for tenants!
1
Know What You Can Afford and What You Need
In Dubai, rent is typically paid using post-dated cheques, ranging from 1 to 12 cheques per contract. Tenants willing to pay in fewer cheques often secure better deals.
To rent, you’ll need:
- Passport copy
- Resident visa copy
- Emirates ID (front and back)
- Cheque book
Don’t forget to factor in these extra costs:
- Ejari registration: AED 220
- Security deposit: 5%–10% of annual rent
- Moving fees: Varies by agency, property size, and location
- DEWA (utility) fees: AED 130 connection charge + AED 2,000 (apartment) or AED 4,000 (villa) refundable deposit
If your residency visa is still under process, provide your agent with an official letter from your company. This can be forwarded to the landlord as proof of visa status.
2
Use trusted online portals and consult people you know. Consider key factors like community, property type, commute, amenities, and budget.
Partner with a knowledgeable agent from Seven X Properties who will help assess your needs and present the best options.
Note: Not all agents manage properties. Some rentals are handled directly by landlords, which may affect how maintenance issues are resolved. Professional Property Managers can make your rental experience far smoother.
3
Your agent will act as a property consultant, recommending homes that align with your criteria.
Avoid viewing the same property with multiple brokers, as this can create artificial demand and inflate rental prices. Stick with one agent per listing.
4
Once you’ve chosen your ideal home, your agent will facilitate negotiations. You’ll propose:
- Rental price
- Number of cheques
- Move-in date and contract duration
- Security deposit amount
Other considerations may include furnishings, pet policies, garden access, or minor alterations. Sometimes, landlords reduce rent in exchange for fewer cheques.
5
Once terms are agreed upon, the tenancy contract is drafted. Your RERA-certified agent from Seven X Properties ensures it complies with all legal standards.
To secure the property, submit:
- Copies of passport and visa
- 5% security deposit
6
After all parties agree, the rental cheques and agency commission are handed over. The signed agreement is exchanged, and keys and access cards are provided.
Always ensure:
- The landlord’s name on cheques matches the title deed
- You verify property ownership via RERA or the Dubai Rest app
7
Ejari registration is mandatory for legal validity and required for visa renewals, family sponsorships, and domestic staff registration. Required documents:
- Original rental agreement
- Property title deed
- Passport copies of tenant and landlord
- Tenant’s Emirates ID
8
To activate electricity and water services, submit:
- DEWA number (found on property’s main panel)
- Passport copies (tenant and landlord)
- Title deed
- DEWA Form A
- Setup fee: AED 130
- Refundable deposit: AED 2,000 (apartment) / AED 4,000 (villa)
Activation is typically completed within 24 hours of payment.
9
Some buildings or communities require a Move-In NOC from the developer. For this, you’ll need:
- Ejari Certificate
- Passport and visa copies
- Tenancy contract
- Move-in request form
- Setup fee: AED 130
- Refundable deposit: AED 2,000 (apartment) / AED 4,000 (villa)
Be mindful of move-in restrictions, such as prohibited days (e.g., Fridays in some buildings).
Before you move in:
- Inspect the property for any damages or issues.
- Take photos of existing conditions for reference.
- Confirm that the property has been cleaned.
- Ensure maintenance issues are addressed before your move.
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