Ejari Dubai: tenancy contract registration

Ejari is the mandatory registration of all tenancy contracts in Dubai: without it, there's no DEWA, no visa renewals, and no legal protection. We break down the procedure, the cost, and the consequences of non-compliance.

Key Facts

• Ejari обязателен для всех договоров аренды — это требование закона RERA
• Регистрация стоит AED 220 и занимает несколько минут онлайн
• Без Ejari нельзя подключить DEWA, продлить Emirates ID или подать в суд
• Штраф арендодателю без Ejari — до AED 50,000
• При продлении договора Ejari нужно обновить

Step-by-Step Process

1. Sign the tenancy contract

   The landlord and tenant sign a contract, typically for 1 year. A standard contract template is available on the RERA website.

2. Gather Documents

   Tenant's passport, Emirates ID, landlord's title deed, DEWA bill or previous Ejari.

3. Register in the Ejari system

   Online: smartservices.rera.gov.ae → Ejari Registration. Alternatively, visit one of the Ejari service centers (list available on the RERA website).

4. Pay the AED 220 Fee

   Pay online by card or in person. Upon payment, your Ejari certificate (PDF) is issued immediately.

5. Renew when extending the contract

   Ejari must be renewed each time the tenancy contract is extended. Failing to update Ejari is a violation.

FAQs

Why Do You Need Ejari?

Ejari is the mandatory registration of all tenancy contracts with DLD. Without it: you cannot connect DEWA (electricity and water), renew your Emirates ID, obtain residence visas for family members, or get parking permits. For landlords, no Ejari means no legal recourse in court for non-payment.

Who pays for Ejari registration?

Under RERA law, the landlord is responsible for registration. In practice, the AED 220 fee is often included in overall costs or paid by the tenant — this is a matter of negotiation. The amount is negligible for both parties.

What Happens Without Ejari?

Tenant: no DEWA connection, no Emirates ID renewal, no school enrollment. Landlord: cannot file a claim with the Rental Disputes Centre. RERA penalty for the landlord — up to AED 50,000.

How to Renew Ejari?

For contract renewals: go to smartservices.rera.gov.ae, select Renew Ejari, and upload the new tenancy contract. The fee remains the same — AED 220.

Is Ejari required for short-term Airbnb rentals?

Short-term rentals (holiday homes) operate under a different framework — you'll need a Holiday Homes license from DET (Dubai Department of Economy & Tourism). Ejari does not apply to contracts shorter than 1 month.