'My rent': Everything you need to know about Dubai's Ejari system

Residents in Dubai would know that the process of renting a home here comes with a unique set of rules. One of the most critical steps? Registering your tenancy contract with Ejari.

Introduced in 2007 and mandated in 2010 by the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA), Ejari has been the core of all rental contracts in Dubai for decades.

This electronic system, supervised by the government, ensures transparency and legality for both newcomers and long-term residents, protecting their rights through documentation that adheres to UAE and Dubai laws.

In this guide, we’ll explore what Ejari is, how to use it, and why it’s essential for anyone renting a property in Dubai.

'My rent'

The word "Ejari" translates to “My Rent” in Arabic, and it represents the single most important document all tenants in Dubai need to formalize their rental agreements.

Ejari’s electronic system bridges the gap between tenants and landlords by ensuring that every rental contract is officially registered, preventing potential fraud or disputes.

In a nutshell, for a contract to be legally binding, it must be registered with Ejari; without it, landlords and tenants could face challenges when seeking legal enforcement or resolving issues.

The Ejari certificate is linked to a tenant's Emirates ID and facilitates essential processes such as setting up utility services, applying for visas, and even sponsoring family members.

Ejari registration process

Registering an Ejari contract is a relatively straightforward process, but it is crucial that all required documents are in order.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to registering:

1. Prepare required documents

• A copy of the signed tenancy contract (both parties should sign it).
• A copy of the title deed of the property.
• Copies of the tenant’s passport and Emirates ID (or residency permit if the tenant is an expatriate).
• Proof of payment, such as bank statements or payment receipts.

2. Register online or at an Ejari Service Center

Once all documents are ready, tenants can register the contract at an Ejari-authorized typing center.

Alternatively, the process can be done online through the Ejari portal or via the Dubai REST (Real Estate Self Transaction) app.

Some third-party real estate platforms also offer Ejari registration services, though it’s crucial to ensure they are authorized by the Dubai Land Department.

3. Pay registration fee

There is a small one-time fee associated with each Ejari registration, which usually ranges from AED 200 to AED 300, depending on the nature of the contract and the service provider.

4. Receive Ejari certificate

Once the tenancy contract is successfully registered, both the tenant and landlord will receive their own copies of the Ejari certificate, which includes vital details such as the tenant’s name, the landlord’s details, the property address, and the rental amount.

Renewal and Termination of Ejari

The Ejari system is also used when renewing a tenancy contract. Each time a lease agreement is renewed, tenants are required to re-register the updated contract in the system to maintain its validity.

Additionally, if a tenant decides to vacate the property or the lease term expires, the Ejari registration must be formally canceled. This ensures that the system is updated, and there are no legal ambiguities surrounding the property’s status.

No Ejari? Here are the consequences

Failing to register a tenancy contract with Ejari can lead to several serious issues. These include:

• Invalid contract: Without Ejari registration, the contract is not legally binding or enforceable in Dubai courts.
• Loss of utility services: Tenants may struggle to set up water and electricity connections.
• Visa issues: The absence of an Ejari certificate can make it difficult to renew residency visas or Emirates IDs.
• Difficulty in legal disputes: Without Ejari, resolving issues through the rent dispute tribunal may be problematic.

In Dubai’s dynamic and ever-evolving real estate market, Ejari plays a crucial role in ensuring that the rental process is smooth, secure, and legally binding for both tenants and landlords.

By registering tenancy agreements through the Ejari system, residents not only ensure that they comply with legal regulations but also protect their rights and gain access to essential services.