The Tenancy Contract
Every rental agreement in Dubai must be a written tenancy contract. RERA provides a standard template that landlords and agents are required to use. The contract must state the names of both parties, the property address, the annual rent amount, the payment schedule and the contract duration.
Rents in Dubai are almost always paid upfront with post-dated cheques. One cheque for the full year is common in budget apartments. More landlords in premium buildings accept four or six cheques. Negotiating the number of cheques is standard practice and worth attempting before you sign.
What Is Ejari?
Ejari is the mandatory online registration system for all rental contracts in Dubai. The Arabic word means "my rent". Registration is handled through the Dubai Land Department (DLD) platform. Without an Ejari number your contract has no legal standing for disputes.
- Either the landlord or the tenant can register via the Ejari app or a typing centre.
- You will need the signed tenancy contract, both parties' Emirates IDs or passports and the title deed of the property.
- The fee is typically AED 220 and is usually paid by the tenant.
- Registration normally takes less than 24 hours online.
Why Ejari Matters for You
You need your Ejari certificate to connect utilities with DEWA, to apply for a residence visa using your home address and to file a complaint with the RERA dispute resolution committee. Always insist on Ejari registration before you hand over any cheques.
RERA Rent Increase Rules
RERA publishes an annual Rental Index for Dubai. A landlord may only increase the rent at renewal if the current rent is below the index value for that property type and location. The maximum permitted increase is capped at 5% to 20% depending on how far below the index the current rent sits.
| Gap Below Index | Max Permitted Increase |
|---|---|
| Less than 10% below | 0% (no increase allowed) |
| 11–20% below | 5% |
| 21–30% below | 10% |
| 31–40% below | 15% |
| More than 40% below | 20% |
A landlord must give 90 days written notice of any rent increase. If you do not receive this notice in time, you can legally renew at the existing rate for another year.
Tenant Obligations
Tenants are responsible for minor repairs and general upkeep. Major structural repairs are the landlord's duty. If a landlord refuses to make necessary repairs, you can report the issue to the RERA dispute committee through the Dubai REST app.
Common pitfall for German expats: In Germany a rental deposit is standard. In Dubai it is not legally required, though many landlords ask for a security deposit of 5% for furnished and 10% for furnished-as-new properties. Always get a signed receipt and document the apartment's condition with photos on move-in day.