You might feel overwhelmed to rent a home in Dubai due to the legal paperwork, utility connections, and rental disputes. So, the Dubai Land Department (DLD) introduced the Ejari system, which the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) regulates. In addition, this system aims to simplify the process to ensure fairness and clarity for landlords and tenants.
What is Ejari?
It (my rent in Arabic) is a government-backed online system that was launched in 2010 to regulate the rental market of Dubai. Additionally, all tenancy agreements must be registered through Ejari in accordance with Law 26 of 2007. So, it makes them legally binding and standardized. The rental disputes were common due to poorly drafted contracts before Ejari. Thus, Ejari emerges to ensure that agreements are clear, fraud-free, and compliant with the rental laws of Dubai.
Why is Ejari Important in Dubai?
Ejari is the base of the rental market of Dubai. In addition, this paperwork has the following importance:
- Legal Protection: An Ejari-registered tenancy contract is enforceable in court and rental dispute committees.
- Access to Services: A valid Ejari certificate is required to set up DEWA (Dubai Electricity & Water Authority), internet, and even to apply for visas.
- Fair Rent Increases: RERA uses Ejari data to regulate rent hikes via the Rental Index, preventing unfair increases.
- Transparency & Security: Standardized contracts reduce fraud and protect the rights of both parties.
Benefits for Tenants and Landlords
The Ejari provides different perks for both tenants and landlords. So, let us understands the benefits for each of them below:
Tenants
- It provides proof of residence.
- It protects against arbitrary rent hikes or evictions.
- It ensures contracts follow Dubai’s tenancy laws.
Landlords
- It secures legal rights in disputes.
- It streamlines renewals, cancellations, and tenant transitions.
- It standardizes agreements for hassle-free property management.
Government
- It creates a centralized rental database.
- It supports urban planning and market regulation.
- It prevents property-related fraud and evasion.
Step-by-Step Guide to Register
You can easily register the Ejari in Dubai. However, you need to complete the following steps:
Prepare Documents
- Signed tenancy contract
- Tenant’s Emirates ID, passport, and visa copy
- Landlord’s passport or title deed
- DEWA premise number or latest bill
- Trade license (for commercial rentals)
2. Choose a Registration Channel
- Dubai REST App
- Dubai Now App
- Ejari online portal (DLD website)
- Ejari-approved typing centers
3. Register online
You must create an account on the chosen platform. Later, you should upload the documents and fill in the rental details. At last, you must pay the registration fee (AED 175–AED 250 depending on channel).
4. Receive your Ejari certification
Once approved, you will get an Ejari certification with a unique Ejari ID and barcode. Remember, they are important for DEWA, telecom, and visa applications.
Renewal and Cancellation
- Renewal: It must be done before the tenancy contract expires. For this, you must update documents and pay the renewal fee (around AED 170).
- Cancellation: When a tenant moves out, landlords must cancel the Ejari contract to avoid delays for the next tenant. The cancellation fee is around AED 30.
Can Landlords Register Ejari from Abroad?
Yes. Overseas landlords can appoint a property management company or issue a Power of Attorney (PoA) to handle Ejari registration on their behalf.
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