How to rent a flat in Dubai, UAE

Thousands of expats are moving to the United Arab Emirates in a bid to turn their dreams into reality, whether it's to build a career or develop business ventures. The vibrant and modern city has an excellent selection of residential property to suit all tastes to accommodate the growing population. It's worth familiarising yourself with the specifics of renting in Dubai to avoid problems later on.

Most residents prefer to start their search with online marketplaces where you can find the most suitable option thanks to a variety of filters, information about the property and contact details for quick communication. Property types to consider: apartments, townhouses, residential plots, villas, penthouses, etc. Be sure to pay attention to the annual rental cost, location for easy travelling to significant points, number of rooms (especially for the prospect of sponsor visas), infrastructure.

When you start working with a broker, ask for their credentials to confirm that they are legally working and registered with the property regulatory agency RERA.

To book a property, you must pay your landlord a refundable security deposit (one month's rent or 5% of it). If you are working with an estate agent, they will usually retain this amount until the transaction is finalised. It is important to keep a receipt for the deposit. Be sure to read the contract, suggest changes if necessary and make sure you are happy with the terms stated. Often property owners offer a good discount if you pay a year in advance. Prepare copies of your passport, visa and ID for the contract.

Before you make a final decision about renting a property, make sure that:

the landlord has paid all maintenance costs;
the property is in a suitable condition: any faults must be rectified before you move in;
you have access to all the facilities and amenities that are specified in the agreement.

The tenancy agreement must then be registered on the Ejari system. This can be done either by the tenant or the landlord online or in the office. It is necessary to prepare the documents:

Original contract

Title deed (from the landlord)

Copies of the passports of the tenant and the landlord

A copy of the tenant's local identity card

Note that if you wish to change the terms of the contract, the parties must be notified at least 90 days in advance. If there are any disputes related to breach of contract, it is worth contacting the Dubai Land Department's Dispute Resolution Centre.

The next step is to connect water and electricity through the Dubai Water and Electricity Authority.

You will need:

DEWA room number (usually indicated on the side of the building).
Ejari number.
A copy of your landlord's passport.
A copy of your passport and Emirates ID.
A completed DEWA form.
Payment of security deposit.

After registration and payment of the fee, services will be activated within 24 hours. The security deposit is approximately AED 2,000 and 100 per activation. Exact prices will depend on the number of square metres of accommodation. When paying utilities, be sure to keep all cheques and receipts.

In some popular areas of Dubai, tenants are required to obtain an entry permit before moving into a flat, villa, etc. To do this, a special form must be filled out on the developer's website.

The following information will be required:

Copy of passport / Emirates ID.
Certificate of completion of payment.
Copy of the rental agreement.
Copy of the latest service charge receipt (from the landlord).

Working with a competent estate agent will make the whole process easier with their experience and guidance at every step.

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