You can work with a broker or find a property rented directly from the owner.

Agree on rent payments

Rent can be paid in one payment or through multiple payments, as agreed with the broker or landlord.

Lease agreements must be registered by the respective authority in each emirate. In Dubai, landlords must register lease agreements with Dubai Land Department.

Check the applicable charges

The registration fee is based on either the rental value or the rental index, whichever is higher. Tenants must also pay housing fees to Dubai Municipality based on the yearly rental charges. Check the authority's website for the current amounts.

Moving to Dubai from the US

Official source: The Official UAE Government Portal (u.ae)

Procedure per The Official UAE Government Portal (u.ae). Fees and timelines change — check the authority's website. We don't invent numbers.

How to arrange your Dubai rental

1
Choose how to rent
You can work with a broker or find a property rented directly from the owner.
2
Agree on rent payments
Rent can be paid in one payment or through multiple payments, as agreed with the broker or landlord.
3
Prepare the lease documents
To conclude the lease with the landlord or real estate agent, provide the required identification documents and post-dated cheques covering payments for the agreed lease period.
Documents:Passport copyValid residence visaEmirates IDPost-dated cheques
4
Register the lease
Lease agreements must be registered by the respective authority in each emirate. In Dubai, landlords must register lease agreements with Dubai Land Department.
Documents:Lease agreement
5
Check the applicable charges
The registration fee is based on either the rental value or the rental index, whichever is higher. Tenants must also pay housing fees to Dubai Municipality based on the yearly rental charges. Check the authority's website for the current amounts.