TryBeforeDubaiEjari, explained
Ejari is the official registration of your tenancy contract with Dubai's land authority. Without it, you can't get DEWA, visas or much else. Here's how it works.
Ejari (Arabic for 'my rent') is the system that registers and regulates rental contracts in Dubai, run under the Dubai Land Department (DLD) and RERA. Registering makes your tenancy legally recognised — and it's a prerequisite for almost everything else you'll need to set up your life.
You need an Ejari certificate to set up DEWA (electricity/water), sponsor family visas, get a liquor licence, enrol some school processes, and to be protected by Dubai's tenancy law if a dispute arises.
Who registers it and what it costs
- Registration is usually arranged by the landlord or the managing agent, but responsibility can be negotiated — confirm who's doing it in your contract.
- The government fee is modest (around AED 220 including the certificate, plus any small typing-centre or agency service fee).
- It's renewed each year when you renew the tenancy.
Documents you'll typically need
- Signed tenancy contract
- Title deed copy of the property (landlord provides)
- Landlord's passport / Emirates ID copy
- Tenant's passport, visa and Emirates ID
- Recent DEWA bill or premises number
- Security deposit receipt (sometimes requested)
How to register
- 1Confirm who registers
Agree in the contract whether the landlord, agent or you will register Ejari.
- 2Use the official channels
Register via the Dubai REST app, the Ejari portal, or an approved real-estate services/typing centre.
- 3Submit documents and pay
Upload the contract and IDs and pay the fee; you'll receive the Ejari certificate with a contract number.
- 4Keep the certificate
You'll need the PDF/number for DEWA, visas and any future dispute at the Rental Dispute Centre.
Fees and procedures change. Confirm current requirements on the official DLD / Dubai REST channels before you act.
Frequently asked
Yes — registering your tenancy contract is required, and you'll be blocked from DEWA, visas and legal protection without it.
It's negotiable but often the landlord or agent arranges and pays the small fee. Always confirm in the contract who is responsible.
Often same-day once documents are complete, whether done online via Dubai REST or at an approved centre.
Keep reading
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Read guideDubai's tenancy law gives renters real protections — on rent increases, evictions and disputes. Here's what you're entitled to, in plain English.
Read guideBefore you sign a Dubai tenancy, run this checklist. It covers the money, the contract, the unit and the admin — the things that protect your deposit and your year.
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