Renewing a tenancy contract in Dubai is a simple and common process that thousands of tenants go through every year. If you are already living in a rented apartment or villa and want to stay for another year, you just need to renew your existing agreement and update it in the system.
Many tenants worry about the renewal process, thinking it might be complicated or time-consuming. The good news is that Dubai has made this process straightforward and efficient. Whether you’ve been renting in Dubai for years or this is your first renewal, understanding the steps will help you complete everything smoothly and on time.
This guide explains the renewal process in easy words, covering everything from when to start the process to how much it costs and what documents you’ll need. By the end of this post, you’ll know exactly what to do to renew your tenancy contract without any confusion.
TL;DR
- Tenancy contracts are usually renewed once every year
- Agreement from both the tenant and landlord is needed
- Start the renewal process 30 to 90 days before your contract ends
- Rent increases must follow RERA guidelines
- Ejari renewal is a mandatory part of the process
- Renewal can be done online or in person
- The total cost is around AED 177 to AED 220
- Keep your Ejari certificate updated to avoid service interruptions
When Should You Renew Your Tenancy Contract?
Most tenancy contracts in Dubai are for one year. Renewal usually starts 30 to 90 days before the contract ends. This gives both the tenant and the landlord enough time to agree on the new terms, such as rent amount and contract duration.
Starting early is important because it gives you time to negotiate if needed and ensures all paperwork is completed before your current contract expires. Some landlords send renewal notices automatically, while others wait for tenants to initiate the conversation.
Once both sides agree on the terms, the contract can be renewed and the formal process begins.
Understanding Rent Increases During Renewal
One of the biggest concerns tenants have during renewal is whether their rent will increase. In Dubai, rent increases are regulated by law and must follow the RERA Rental Index, which is based on average rental rates in your area.
Your landlord cannot increase rent by any amount they choose. The increase depends on how much your current rent differs from the average market rate for similar properties in your neighborhood. If your rent is already at or above the market average, your landlord cannot legally increase it.
If your landlord proposes a rent increase, you can check whether it’s allowed by using the RERA rent calculator available on the Dubai Land Department website. This protects tenants from unfair increases.
Steps to Renew a Tenancy Contract in Dubai
Renewing a tenancy contract usually involves these simple steps:
1. Confirm Renewal with the Landlord
Both tenant and landlord agree to continue the rental for another year. Discuss and agree on the rent amount, payment schedule, and any other terms. It’s best to have this conversation well before your contract expires to avoid any last-minute issues.
2. Sign the Renewed Tenancy Contract
The contract may stay the same or include small updates, such as rent or payment details. Make sure you read the renewed contract carefully before signing. Check that all details are correct, including your name, the property address, the rental amount, and the contract duration.
Both you and your landlord must sign the renewed contract. Keep a copy for your records.
3. Renew Ejari Registration
After signing, the updated contract must be renewed in the Ejari system. This is a mandatory step that makes your renewed contract official and recognized by the government.
This can be done:
- Online using the Dubai REST app or DLD website: This is the fastest and most convenient option. Simply log in, select the renewal service, upload your documents, and pay the fee.
- In person at a Real Estate Trustee Centre: If you prefer face-to-face service or need assistance, you can visit any approved real estate office or service center.
4. Receive the Renewed Ejari Certificate
Once approved, you receive an updated Ejari certificate showing the new contract period. This certificate is your proof that your tenancy is officially registered for another year.
Documents Needed for Renewal
You usually need:
- Renewed tenancy contract (signed by both parties)
- Tenant’s Emirates ID
- Previous Ejari certificate
- Landlord details (Emirates ID or passport if required)
The process is usually quick if all documents are ready and complete. Make sure all information matches exactly what’s on your original documents to avoid delays.
How Much Does Ejari Renewal Cost?
The cost to renew your Ejari registration is the same as the initial registration:
- AED 100 for the contract
- AED 10 knowledge fee
- AED 10 innovation fee
- Service partner fee (varies by provider)
The total usually comes to around AED 177 to AED 220 depending on whether you renew online or in person. This is a small cost compared to the importance of keeping your tenancy official and legal.
How Long Does Renewal Take?
- Online renewal: Usually processed quickly, often within the same day if all documents are correct
- In-person renewal: Takes about 7 to 10 minutes at the service center once you submit everything
The speed depends on how busy the system is and whether your documents are complete and accurate.
Why Ejari Renewal Is Important
Renewing Ejari helps keep your tenancy details up to date. It is often required for:
- Continuing DEWA services without interruption
- Visa-related processes for you and your family members
- Other everyday residential services
- Legal protection in case of disputes
Without a renewed Ejari certificate, you may face problems accessing government services or proving your legal residency status.
What Happens If You Don’t Renew on Time?
If your Ejari registration expires, you may face several issues:
- DEWA might disconnect your utilities or refuse to process bills in your name
- You cannot use the contract for visa renewals or other official purposes
- Your tenancy loses its legal status with government authorities
- You may need to pay late fees or penalties
Always aim to complete your renewal before your current Ejari certificate expires to avoid these complications.
Can You Negotiate Renewal Terms?
Yes, renewal is a negotiation between you and your landlord. While your landlord has the right to increase rent according to RERA guidelines, you also have the right to:
- Request to keep the same rent if it’s already at market rate
- Negotiate payment terms or the number of cheques
- Discuss maintenance issues that need to be addressed
- Ask for contract terms that work better for both parties
Good communication with your landlord can often lead to an agreement that satisfies everyone. If your landlord is proposing an unfair rent increase, you can dispute it through the Rental Disputes Center.
Tips for a Smooth Renewal Process
Start early. Don’t wait until the last minute. Begin discussions with your landlord at least 60 days before your contract ends.
Keep records. Save copies of all documents, including your old contract, new contract, and both Ejari certificates.
Check the details. Make sure all information on the renewed contract is accurate before signing anything.
Pay rent on time. If you’ve been a good tenant who pays on time and takes care of the property, your landlord is more likely to offer favorable renewal terms.
Get everything in writing. Any agreements about rent, maintenance, or other terms should be included in the written contract, not just verbal promises.
What If Your Landlord Doesn’t Want to Renew?
Landlords must give you proper notice if they don’t want to renew your contract. According to Dubai law:
- For contracts of less than one year: 30 days’ notice
- For contracts of one year or more: 90 days’ notice
The landlord must provide a valid reason for non-renewal, such as wanting to sell the property, move in themselves, or make major renovations. They cannot refuse to renew without proper justification.
If you believe your landlord is acting unfairly, you can file a complaint with the Rental Disputes Center.
Renewing After Living in the Same Place for Years
If you’ve been living in the same property for several years, the renewal process remains the same each year. However, long-term tenants often benefit from:
- Better relationships with landlords who value reliable tenants
- More negotiating power when discussing rent increases
- Easier renewal processes since all parties are familiar with each other
Some landlords offer long-term tenants special considerations like smaller rent increases or flexibility with payment terms.
Renewing your tenancy contract in Dubai is a straightforward process when you know what to expect. By starting early, preparing your documents, and maintaining good communication with your landlord, you can complete the renewal smoothly and continue enjoying your home for another year.
Remember that Ejari renewal is not optional—it’s a legal requirement that protects both you and your landlord. Make it a priority to update your registration as soon as you sign your renewed contract. This simple step ensures you maintain access to all essential services and keeps your residency status official.
If you have any questions about rent increases or feel your landlord is not following the proper procedures, don’t hesitate to contact the Rental Disputes Centre or seek advice from the Dubai Land Department. Your rights as a tenant are protected by law, and there are resources available to help you.
