If you’re renting a property in Dubai, you’ll need to go through the Ejari registration Dubai process to make your tenancy contract legally valid. But what exactly is it, and how do you register? In this guide, we’ll explain how to register Ejari in Dubai, what documents you’ll need, and how you can do it both online and offline. We’ll also cover tips for renewal and cancellation, so you have the full picture before starting the process.
What is Ejari?
Ejari, which means “My Rent” in Arabic, is an official rental registration system set up by the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA). It records your Dubai tenancy contract in a government-approved format, protecting the rights of both tenants and landlords.
It’s not just a formality; without Ejari, you can’t:
- Set up utilities with DEWA (Dubai Electricity and Water Authority).
- Apply for or renew your residency visa.
- Resolve rental disputes in court.
The Dubai Land Department (DLD) introduced Ejari in 2007 to make rental agreements more transparent and secure. Once registered, you’ll receive an Ejari certificate, an important document that proves your contract is valid under Dubai law.
Is Ejari Registration Mandatory in Dubai?
Yes. Ejari registration is mandatory in Dubai for all rental agreements, whether you are renting a villa, apartment, or commercial space. The Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA) requires that every Dubai tenancy contract be recorded in the official Ejari system to make it legally valid.
If your lease is not registered, you may face serious inconveniences:
- You won’t be able to connect your DEWA (Dubai Electricity and Water Authority) account.
- You cannot sponsor family visas or renew existing residency permits.
- Any rental dispute you file with the court will likely be dismissed, since the Ejari certificate is a key requirement for legal proceedings.
The Ejari registration process ensures transparency between tenants and landlords by creating a government-approved record of the contract. Whether you do your Ejari online through the Dubai REST app or in person at a trustee center, the process protects both parties’ rights and prevents misunderstandings over rent, deposits, or contract terms.
Who Can Register Ejari?
Ejari registration can be done by:
- The landlord.
- The tenant.
- A real estate agent or property management company authorized by the landlord.
Although the landlord is responsible for registering, in many cases, tenants end up completing the process themselves and paying the fee.
What Are The Required Ejari Documents?
Before you start the Ejari registration process, it’s important to prepare all the necessary paperwork. Submitting complete and accurate Ejari documents ensures your application is processed quickly, whether you’re registering at a trustee center or completing your Ejari online through the Dubai REST app.
The list of required documents can differ slightly depending on whether you are a tenant or a landlord, but here’s a complete breakdown:
For Tenants:
If you’re the tenant, you’ll need to provide:
- Original signed tenancy contract: This is the core document that needs to be registered in the Ejari system. Make sure it clearly states the rent amount, contract duration, and property address.
- Passport copy: Include a clear copy of your passport, showing your personal details page.
- Visa page copy: If you are a resident, attach the page in your passport showing your valid UAE visa.
- Emirates ID copy: Both sides should be scanned or photocopied.
- DEWA bill or connection number: If available, this will help link your Ejari with your DEWA account for water and electricity.
For Landlords:
If you are the landlord (or a representative registering on their behalf), you will need:
- Copy of the property’s title deed: Proves ownership of the property.
- Passport copy or Emirates ID: Required to verify the landlord’s identity.
- Landlord’s contact details: Including mobile number and email address.
For Renewals or Transfers:
If you are renewing Ejari for an ongoing Dubai tenancy contract or transferring it to a new tenant, you may also need:
- Previous Ejari certificate: This helps the system update your existing record instead of creating a new one.
- Updated tenancy contract: If the rental amount or contract terms have changed.
While Ejari registration is key for tenants, those considering long-term ownership can also explore properties for sale in Dubai.
How to Register for Ejari in Dubai
There are two main ways to complete your Ejari registration: online through the Dubai REST app or offline at a Real Estate Services Trustee Center. Both methods are straightforward, but the online process can save you time if you have all the required documents ready.
Online Ejari Registration via Dubai REST App
If you prefer to handle your tenancy paperwork from the comfort of your home, the Ejari online method is ideal. The Dubai REST app, managed by the Dubai Land Department (DLD), makes it easy to complete the process in just a few steps:
- Download the Dubai REST App
Available on both iOS and Android, this is the official platform for digital property services in Dubai. - Log In Using UAE Pass
Sign in securely with your UAE Pass to access government services. - Go to ‘Services’ → ‘RERA’ → ‘Register Ejari Contract’
This is where you’ll start your Ejari registration process. - Fill in the Application Form
Provide details from your Dubai tenancy contract, including property location, rental amount, and duration. - Upload the Required Ejari Documents
Attach scanned copies of the tenancy contract, Emirates ID, passport, title deed, and DEWA number or bill. - Submit Your Application
Once submitted, the request will be sent to your landlord for approval. - Landlord Approval
The landlord must confirm the registration in their Dubai REST app account. - Pay the Ejari Fee
Pay securely through the app; the total for online registration is AED 120 (including knowledge and innovation fees). - Receive Your Ejari Certificate
Once approved and payment is confirmed, your Ejari certificate is issued instantly.
Offline Ejari Registration at Real Estate Services Trustee Centers
For those who prefer face-to-face service, you can visit an approved Ejari trustee center or Real Estate Services Trustee office in Dubai. This method is especially useful if you’re not comfortable with online processes or need in-person guidance.
Here’s how it works:
- Visit an Approved Center
Locate your nearest Ejari trustee office. Many can be found in malls and key business districts. - Submit the Required Documents
Bring originals and copies of all necessary Ejari documents (tenancy contract, Emirates ID, passports, title deed, DEWA details). - Complete the Registration Form
The center will provide a form where you input your tenancy details. - Pay the Ejari Registration Fee
For offline registration, expect to pay AED 235 in total (including trustee service fees, knowledge fee, and innovation fee). - Get Your Ejari Certificate
The process takes around 7 minutes once your documents are verified.
Ejari Registration Fees in Dubai
Online Registration via Dubai REST App
- AED 100 for registering the tenancy contract.
- AED 10 knowledge fee.
- AED 10 innovation fee.
Total: AED 120
Offline Registration via Real Estate Services Trustee Centers
- AED 120 for registering the tenancy contract.
- AED 95 + VAT trustee service partner fee.
- AED 10 knowledge fee.
- AED 10 innovation fee.
Total: Around AED 235
Renewing and Cancelling Ejari in Dubai
Keeping your Ejari registration up to date is just as important as registering it for the first time. Whether you are renewing your tenancy or moving out, these steps ensure your rental records remain accurate with RERA and the Dubai Land Department (DLD).
Renewing Ejari
When you renew your Dubai tenancy contract, you must also renew your Ejari. The process is almost identical to the initial Ejari registration process, with a few differences:
- Submit the updated tenancy contract showing the new rental term and amount.
- Provide the same Ejari documents as before, Emirates ID, passport copy, landlord documents, and DEWA details.
- Pay the renewal fee (similar to the initial registration fee).
You can renew Ejari online through the Dubai REST app or offline at a Real Estate Services Trustee Center.
Cancelling Ejari
If your tenancy ends before the contract expiry or you are moving to a new property, you need to cancel your Ejari before registering a new one. Cancellation can be done in two ways:
- Online: Log in to the Dubai REST app, select your contract, and request cancellation.
- Offline: Visit a Real Estate Services Trustee Center with the required documents (including a clearance letter from DEWA, if applicable).
Cancelling your Ejari ensures that the old tenancy record is closed in the government database, preventing complications when registering a new tenancy contract.
Understanding how to register Ejari in Dubai and staying on top of renewals or cancellations is essential for a smooth, legally compliant rental experience. The system, managed by RERA and the Dubai Land Department, not only secures your rights as a tenant or landlord but also links your Dubai tenancy contract to important services such as DEWA.
Whether you choose the convenience of Ejari online via the Dubai REST app or prefer visiting a trustee center in person, keeping your Ejari updated protects you from legal issues, ensures access to utilities, and keeps your rental journey stress-free.
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