KNOW YOUR BUDGET AND PREPARE YOUR DOCUMENTS

• Before you begin your home search, make sure you're financially ready and have your paperwork in order.

• Rent in Dubai is paid in post-dated cheques, typically between 1–12 for the contract term. Fewer cheques often get you better rental terms.
   

You’ll need:

• Passport copy

• Emirates ID (front and back)

• Residence visa (or a company letter if it’s under process)

• UAE checkbook

• Upfront costs to budget for:

• Security deposit – 5% (unfurnished) or 10% (furnished)

• Agency fee – 5%–8% of the annual rent

• Ejari fee – AED 220

• DEWA setup – AED 130 (activation) + AED 2,000–4,000 (refundable deposit)

• Moving fees – Varies based on unit size and service provider
   

FIND THE RIGHT HOME

• Your agent will guide you based on your lifestyle, budget, and preferences. Think about location, community vibe, building quality, and long-term needs.
   

Why work with a trusted agent:

• Understand your legal rights and obligations

• Get access to vetted landlords and verified listings

• Learn who manages the property (landlord vs. property manager)

• Pro Tip: Avoid viewing the same property with multiple brokers. It can inflate the price and complicate negotiations.
   

VIEW, NEGOTIATE & SIGN YOUR LEASE
Viewings:

• Your agent arranges and filters viewings that match your exact criteria.

• When you find the right home:

• Negotiate terms – price, number of cheques, deposit, extras (like furnishing or pets)

• Sign the tenancy contract – drafted by your agent in compliance with RERA tenancy laws

• Submit your rent cheques and agency fee

• Collect keys once payments are cleared
   

Note: Cheques must be made out to the landlord (as per the title deed) or a verified POA holder.
 

REGISTER EJARI & SET-UP DEWA
Both steps are required before move-in:
 

Ejari Registration

• Required for legal tenancy, visa renewals, and DEWA connection. We’ll help you submit the tenancy contract, title deed, and ID copies.
   

DEWA Setup, you’ll need:​

• DEWA number (on the building)

• Passport copies

• Title deed

• DEWA form

• Cost: AED 130 setup + AED 2,000 (apartment) or AED 4,000 (villa) refundable deposit

• Setup is typically activated within 24 hours.

MOVE IN & SETTLE

Some buildings require a move-in NOC from the developer. We’ll help guide you through the requirements, including submitting your Ejari and tenancy documents.
 

Before you move:

• Confirm allowed move-in dates and hours

• Inspect the property and document any pre-existing issues

• Ask for a deep clean if needed

• Once the landlord has cashed your rent cheques and everything is confirmed — the keys are yours.

• Set up your utilities and enjoy your new home.