Renting in Dubai: Ejari, deposits and notice periods

Renting in Dubai is straightforward once you know the few rules that every lease follows.

Ejari

Every tenancy contract must be registered on Ejari. Registration makes the lease official, and you will need the Ejari certificate to connect DEWA and for visa paperwork.

Security deposit

Landlords usually ask for a refundable security deposit, typically around 5% of the annual rent for unfurnished homes, returned at the end of the tenancy if the home is handed back in good condition.

Notice periods

Changes to the terms of a lease, including a rent increase, must be notified at least 90 days before the lease expires. Any increase must also respect the limits set by the official rental index.