If you are renting a place in Dubai, you must register your tenancy contract with Ejari. Whether you are moving to Dubai for the first time or switching to a new apartment, understanding the Ejari registration process is essential for every tenant in the emirate.
Dubai has built one of the most modern and efficient rental systems in the world, and Ejari sits at the heart of this system. It protects both landlords and tenants by creating an official record of every rental agreement in the city. Without this registration, you may find yourself unable to access basic services or facing unnecessary complications in your daily life.
This post explains what Ejari is, why it matters, and how you can register or renew your tenancy contract. Whether you prefer handling things online or visiting an office in person, we’ll walk you through every step of the process. The language is simple and easy to understand, so even if this is your first time dealing with Dubai’s rental system, you’ll know exactly what to do.
TL;DR
- Ejari regulates your tenancy contract
- You should register or renew it when you sign or extend a lease.
- It costs AED 177 to AED 250
- You can register online or in person.
- You need the following documents to register your tenancy contract in Dubai:
- Copy of the tenancy contract
- Tenant’s Emirates ID
- Landlord’s Emirates ID or passport (if needed)
- Power of Attorney (if someone is acting for the owner)
What Is Ejari?
Ejari is a special system in Dubai that records your tenancy contract online with the Dubai Land Department (DLD). The word “Ejari” means “my rent” in Arabic. When your rental agreement is registered in Ejari, it becomes official and recognized by the government.
Why Do You Need to Register with Ejari?
You need Ejari for many services in Dubai. If your contract is registered:
- You can get DEWA (water and electricity) services
- You can renew visas for you and your family
- You can use the contract if there is a problem with the landlord or tenant
If you do not register your contract, these essential services may not work properly, and you could face difficulties with government procedures.
When Do You Register or Renew Ejari?
You must register when you sign a new tenancy contract, and when you renew your tenancy contract after it finishes. Every time you have a new or updated contract, Ejari must also be updated.
How to Register Your Tenancy Contract with Ejari
There are two ways to register your tenancy:
1. Register Online (Using App or Website)
You can use the Dubai REST app or the DLD Ejari portal. Here is how:
- Login to the Dubai REST app or the DLD website
- Choose the Register Ejari Contract service
- Fill in the required information and upload your documents
- Pay the fee online
- After the review, you will receive the Ejari certificate by email
This method is fast and can be done from your phone or computer.
2. Register at a Real Estate Office (In Person)
If you prefer, you can go to a Real Estate Trustee Center near you:
- Visit the real estate office or service center
- Submit your documents (original contract, Emirates ID, etc.)
- Pay the service fee at the counter
- After processing, you will receive your Ejari Certificate
This method is good if you need help from someone in the office.
What Documents Do You Need?
Here are the most common papers you need:
- Copy of the tenancy contract
- Tenant’s Emirates ID
- Landlord’s Emirates ID or passport (if needed)
- Power of Attorney (if someone is acting for the owner)
If you are doing it online, you upload copies. If you go in person, you take originals.
How Much Does It Cost?
The basic government fee to register or renew Ejari is:
- AED 100 for the contract
- AED 10 knowledge fee
- AED 10 innovation fee
There is also a service partner fee whether you are online or in person. All together, the total is usually around AED 177 to AED 220, depending on how you do it.
How Long Does It Take?
- Online: Usually very fast — the certificate is often ready quickly after approval
- In Person: Around 7 minutes once you submit your documents at the center
What You Get After Registration
After registration, you receive an official Ejari Certificate. This certificate shows:
- Your tenancy contract is recorded
- Your name, the landlord’s name, and property details
- A registration number you can use for official services
Tips for a Smooth Registration
Check your contract details carefully. Make sure all names, dates, and property information are correct before you submit. Any mistakes can cause delays.
Keep your Ejari certificate safe. You will need it for DEWA connection, visa renewals, and other official processes. Save a digital copy on your phone or computer.
Renew on time. Don’t wait until the last minute to renew your Ejari when your contract ends. Processing takes time, and you need a valid Ejari for continuous services.
Use the online method if possible. It’s faster, more convenient, and you can do it from anywhere without travelling to an office.
Common Questions About Ejari
Can my landlord register Ejari for me?
Yes, either the landlord or the tenant can register the contract. Some landlords include this service, while others ask tenants to do it themselves. Check with your landlord about who will handle the registration.
What happens if I don’t register?
Without Ejari registration, you cannot connect utilities like water and electricity in your name. You also cannot use your tenancy contract for visa processing or legal matters. The government considers unregistered contracts unofficial.
Can I register if I share an apartment?
If you share an apartment and each person has a separate contract with the landlord, each contract should be registered separately. If you are subletting or sharing informally, you may face challenges with registration.
How do I check my Ejari status?
You can check your registration status through the Dubai REST app or the DLD website using your contract number or Emirates ID.
Registering your tenancy contract with Ejari is a simple but important step when renting in Dubai. The process is straightforward, whether you choose to do it online or visit an office in person. With your documents ready and the registration fee prepared, you can complete this requirement quickly and ensure you have access to all the services you need as a tenant in Dubai.
Make Ejari registration one of your first priorities when you move into a new rental property. This small step will save you from bigger problems later and make your life in Dubai much easier.
