What is Ejari?
Ejari (Arabic for "my rent") is an electronic platform launched by Dubai's Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA) to register all tenancy contracts in the emirate. The system was established under Law No. 26 of 2007 to bring transparency to Dubai's rental market and create an official record of all lease agreements.
When a tenancy contract is registered in Ejari, both the landlord and tenant receive legal protection. The registered contract becomes the only document accepted by the Rental Dispute Centre (RDC) in case of disagreements. It also links the contract to RERA's rental index, protecting tenants from unlawful rent increases.
Ejari covers all types of rental agreements in Dubai - residential apartments, villas, commercial offices, retail spaces, and warehouses. The system records the contract duration, rental value, payment method (number of cheques), and links it to the property's title deed.
How to Register Ejari
There are several channels for registering an Ejari contract. The process has become significantly simpler with digital options:
- Dubai REST app: The fastest option. Log in with UAE Pass, upload documents, and complete registration digitally. Available 24/7.
- Authorised typing centres: Visit a RERA-approved typing centre with all required documents. Registration is processed on the spot.
- Real Estate Service Trustees: Licensed trustee offices can handle registration on behalf of either party.
- Through your agent: Some registered real estate agents offer Ejari registration as part of their service.
Ejari should be registered within 14 days of signing the tenancy contract. Delays may cause difficulties with DEWA connection, visa processing, and school enrolment. Make registration a priority immediately after signing.
Required Documents
The following documents are needed for Ejari registration. Both the landlord and tenant must provide their respective items:
| Document | Provided By | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Passport + visa copy | Tenant | Must be valid and current |
| Emirates ID | Tenant | Both sides |
| Signed tenancy contract | Both parties | Signed by landlord and tenant |
| Title deed | Landlord | Or power of attorney from owner |
| DEWA account number | Tenant | Must be in tenant's name |
Ejari Fees
Ejari registration fees are relatively modest compared to other real estate transaction costs in Dubai:
- New registration: Approximately AED 220 (including VAT) through typing centres
- Contract renewal: Approximately AED 220 (including VAT)
- Cancellation: Approximately AED 110 (including VAT)
Fees may be lower or waived when using the Dubai REST app directly. Prices are subject to change - check the Dubai REST app or DLD website for current rates. The cost of Ejari registration is typically borne by the tenant, though this can be negotiated as part of the lease terms.
Why Ejari Matters
Ejari registration is not just a legal formality - it has practical consequences that affect daily life in Dubai:
- Legal protection: A registered contract is the only document accepted by the Rental Dispute Centre (RDC) for resolving tenancy disputes
- DEWA services: Required to open or transfer electricity and water accounts in the tenant's name
- Visa processing: Certain visa types require a valid Ejari certificate as proof of residence
- Rent protection: Links the contract to RERA's rent index, protecting tenants from increases beyond the legally permitted amount
- School enrolment: Many schools require an Ejari certificate as proof of residential address
- Address proof: Accepted as an official document for proving residential address across government and private services
Never sign a tenancy contract without confirming the landlord will register it in Ejari. An unregistered contract does not provide full legal protection and may cause problems with utilities, visa renewals, and school registration.
Cancellation & Renewal
Ejari contracts must be actively managed throughout the tenancy lifecycle:
- Renewal: When a contract is renewed (even if terms are unchanged), a new Ejari registration must be completed
- Cancellation: When moving out, the existing Ejari must be cancelled before the new tenant can register theirs
- Early termination: If a tenant breaks the lease early, the Ejari should still be formally cancelled to avoid complications
Landlords should ensure the previous tenant's Ejari is cancelled before signing with a new tenant. Two active Ejari registrations on the same property will cause issues with the system.